Elephants Alive Shepherd Program

Over the last few months, our elephant shepherds have once again proven themselves to be real-life heroes in the field.

In a tense and dramatic incident this March, one of our tracked elephants made a cross-border journey from Mozambique into South Africa. Unfortunately, the elephant ventured into sugarcane farmland, triggering understandable concern from local farmers and posing a serious risk of human-elephant conflict.

Without rapid intervention, this story could have ended in tragedy. But thanks to the extraordinary coordination between our elephant tracking team, cooperative farmers, a helicopter pilot, and—most importantly—our community-based elephant shepherds, the elephant was guided back to safety.

This operation was no small feat. It required real-time monitoring, quick response logistics, and deep trust built over time with local communities. It is a powerful example of how coexistence is possible when people, technology, and compassion work hand in hand.

According to a South African farmer, the shepherds' presence made all the difference, they were very thankful. 

These moments are why the Shepherd Program exists. Every successful intervention means another elephant is spared, another conflict is resolved peacefully, and another community sees the value of conservation from within.

In the coming months, we’ll continue to monitor elephant movements closely, respond rapidly where needed, and support our shepherds in doing what they do best—keeping elephants and people safe.

We’re incredibly proud of the shepherds and thankful for your continued support. You are an essential part of this journey.

With gratitude,

The Elephants Alive Team

Links:

• Live footage of the elephants being shepherded to safety