Elephant Guardians of Gae Rock

The Kasighau Elephant Guardians are a group of volunteers on a community-led mission to promote harmonious human-elephant co-existence near the eastern boundary of Tsavo West National Park. Based at Gae Rock, a large granite formation, these young men protect elephants from fear, hate, and violence arising from human-elephant conflicts at water collection points and rural farms in the area. For elephant herds, with substantial water needs, the region is a critical migratory corridor for the Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Mkomazi National Parks. However rainfall and water reserves are scarce in the area, and the Gae Rock water basin serves as a vital lifeline for the villages of Kiteghe, Rukanga and Kisimenyi, where most people rely on subsistence farming.

Kasighau Elephant Guardians bravely stand as the first line of defense day and night, patrolling the farms of Kiteghe and Rukanga, while also safeguarding the Gae Rock water basin. Armed with torches, compassion for elephants, rich traditional knowledge about elephant behavior, and a deep understanding of local geography, these unsung heroes work tirelessly to alert elephants of human presence, gently and harmlessly redirecting them towards alternate food and water sources further on their journey.

Because the Guardians are unemployed volunteers who serve without pay, they face significant financial hardships related to their work and everyday costs of living. Each of the 17 guardians also requires appropriate field equipment, at a cost of at least $125 per person. In addition, the team needs supplementary support on a monthly basis for basic food and hygiene equipment, amounting to $340 for the whole team, or $20 per guardian. Your donations will provide essential resources needed for these courageous individuals to continue their vital work with unwavering commitment to protecting elephants and securing positive attitudes towards them by local people.

In partnership with RIDE International (a registered non-profit 501 (c)(3), www.RIDEinternational.org), this fundraising campaign seeks to foster harmony between humans and elephants while empowering local communities with sustainable solutions. Your generous contributions will make a tangible difference in the lives of the Kasighau Elephant Guardians and open the door for positive change and a brighter future for elephants and the people of Kenya's Taita-Taveta County.

Learn more about RIDE's impactful initiatives in East Africa by visiting the link provided on this GoFundMe page. Together, let us rally behind the Kasighau Elephant Guardians and create a legacy of coexistence and compassion that echoes through generations.

Thanks,

Liam Feltman and Eli Soss, Undergraduate Seniors at the University of Denver

Kahindi Lekalhaile, Regional Director at RIDE International

Riley Blackwell, Executive Director at RIDE International

Dr. Robert Uttaro, Associate Teaching Professor, Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver.