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Zimbabwean man fatally attacked by elephant in South Africa
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A Zimbabwean wildlife caretaker, Israel Shambira, was tragically killed on Saturday afternoon after an unexpected attack by an elephant at the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD) sanctuary in Limpopo, South Africa.
According to a statement from HERD, the incident occurred shortly after 3pm when an elephant named Limpopo - Tokwe's firstborn - unexpectedly turned on Shambira.
Shambira, a senior carer, had been sitting under a tree while three colleagues went to fetch help after Limpopo pushed one down. Moments later, the elephant fatally gored him. Despite immediate efforts by fellow staff members, nothing could be done to save his life.
HERD described Limpopo's actions as "unexpected and unprovoked," noting that the elephant had no known history of trauma or aggression.
Shambira was among the original team of carers who joined HERD in 2002, when elephants were relocated from Zimbabwe. He was remembered by colleagues as a man of faith, deeply respected for his unwavering dedication to the sanctuary's mission.
"Trusted, dependable and deeply respected, Shambira was always ready to assist beyond his duties. He often walked with Sebakwe, another elder of the herd, in quiet companionship at day's end, symbolic of the wisdom and calm he brought to our community," HERD said.
HERD's elephant manager, Tigere Matipedza, expressed shock at the tragedy:
"Just this morning, everything in the bush was calm, with no signs of agitation among the elephants."
Shambira leaves behind his wife and eight children. HERD extended its condolences to his family, vowing to continue his legacy of compassion and commitment to elephants.
"Shambira's legacy of dedication to giving elephants a second chance will be remembered. HERD's work continues amid sorrow, focusing on the sanctuary's mission for elephants in need."
According to a statement from HERD, the incident occurred shortly after 3pm when an elephant named Limpopo - Tokwe's firstborn - unexpectedly turned on Shambira.
Shambira, a senior carer, had been sitting under a tree while three colleagues went to fetch help after Limpopo pushed one down. Moments later, the elephant fatally gored him. Despite immediate efforts by fellow staff members, nothing could be done to save his life.
HERD described Limpopo's actions as "unexpected and unprovoked," noting that the elephant had no known history of trauma or aggression.
Shambira was among the original team of carers who joined HERD in 2002, when elephants were relocated from Zimbabwe. He was remembered by colleagues as a man of faith, deeply respected for his unwavering dedication to the sanctuary's mission.
"Trusted, dependable and deeply respected, Shambira was always ready to assist beyond his duties. He often walked with Sebakwe, another elder of the herd, in quiet companionship at day's end, symbolic of the wisdom and calm he brought to our community," HERD said.
HERD's elephant manager, Tigere Matipedza, expressed shock at the tragedy:
"Just this morning, everything in the bush was calm, with no signs of agitation among the elephants."
Shambira leaves behind his wife and eight children. HERD extended its condolences to his family, vowing to continue his legacy of compassion and commitment to elephants.
"Shambira's legacy of dedication to giving elephants a second chance will be remembered. HERD's work continues amid sorrow, focusing on the sanctuary's mission for elephants in need."
Source - Southern Eye
