Freedom at Last: South Africa’s Last Zoo Elephant Released After 40 Years

Charlie, South Africa’s last zoo elephant, begins a new chapter in freedom at Shambala Private Reserve after four decades in captivity. This historic release marks a triumph for animal welfare and conservation.
 
(The Post News)- In a historic moment for animal welfare and conservation, Charlie, South Africa’s last zoo elephant in Pretoria, was released into a natural sanctuary by wildlife activists on Monday after spending four decades in captivity. 
 
The 42-year-old elephant was transferred from the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria to the beautiful Shambala Private Reserve in northern Limpopo.
 
Charlie’s journey to freedom began when he was just two years old, separated from his herd in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park.
 
He was then sold to a circus in South Africa, forced to perform tricks for years, and later moved to the Pretoria Zoo in 2001.
 
During his time in captivity, Charlie witnessed the premature deaths of three companions and lost his own daughter at just a few weeks old.
 
Thanks to years of tireless advocacy by the EMS Foundation and the Pro Elephant Network, presenting scientific evidence of the harm caused by keeping elephants in zoos, the South African government finally agreed to Charlie’s release.
 
he EMS Foundation hailed the move as a victory for animal rights and welfare.
 
The EMS Foundation was founded by Tjaart and Louis Steyn in tribute to their mother, Elizabeth Margaret Steyn, with a focus on supporting vulnerable groups in South Africa and Africa.
 
The EMS Foundation aims to improve and safeguard the rights and well-being of wild animals, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups in South Africa and across Africa.

Their mission includes reducing suffering, tackling inequality, raising public awareness, and empowering people to help restore dignity.
 
The EMS Foundation has expressed hope that Charlie’s transition to his new environment and life will help him heal from his past experiences. 
 
As Charlie begins his new life in the Shambala Reserve, he will receive close monitoring and support from experts and conservation groups.

This marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s journey towards a more compassionate and sustainable relationship with wildlife.

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