HOEDSPRUIT – Among the hardest hit during the recent floods is the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation Development (Herd).

Infrastructure damage threatens animal care

Herd rescues and cares for elephants orphaned or injured in the wild. Although national disaster relief channels exist, conservation NGOs like Herd often fall outside the primary funding streams, leaving them to rely on public support in times of crisis.

“For Herd, damage to infrastructure has immediate and serious consequences,” says Lerissa van Biljon, Herd media manager.

“Our elephants depend on a safe, well-maintained environment, and when roads, stables, and drainage systems fail, both animal welfare and staff safety are at risk. We urgently need support to continue providing care and ensure everyone remains safe.”

Urgent flood relief fund launched

Herd has launched an urgent flood relief fund, with immediate priorities focused on stabilising operations and protecting lives.

Relief efforts include supplying clean drinking water to staff, guests, and elephants; cleaning and repairing critical facilities, including elephant stables; providing carers with protective clothing for safely guiding elephants through flooded and damaged areas; and delivering urgent medical care to animals affected by the floods.

Once these immediate needs are addressed, Herd will begin assessing the full extent of the flood damage and will communicate a long-term restoration plan as it develops.

Long road to recovery

The organisation emphasises that recovery is expected to be a long process, with careful attention to the safety and welfare of the elephants and the staff who care for them.

Members of the public can make a tangible difference by donating directly to Herd’s flood relief fund or supporting the organisation through its wishlist, which provides essential supplies for immediate use.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure the safety of the elephants, supports staff in the field, and aids in the recovery of the surrounding conservation environment.

“The floods have tested our resilience, but with community support, we can overcome these challenges and continue our work protecting and caring for elephants,” Van Biljon added.