A wildlife sanctuary in Kenya is gaining attention for helping orphaned elephants while supporting local Indigenous communities. In 2025, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary continued its work in northern Kenya, where young elephants are often separated from their families because of drought or human activity. Unlike many conservation centers, Reteti is fully operated by the Samburu people, making it a distinctive example of community-led conservation.

The sanctuary rescues elephants reported by nearby villagers and provides food and medical care until the animals are strong enough to return to the wild. One major challenge was finding a safe and affordable milk source. Commercial formula was expensive and did not meet the elephants’ needs. Caretakers found a practical solution by using goat’s milk from local herds. This approach benefits elephants and creates income for Samburu families, especially women. Over one thousand women now sell milk to Reteti, helping improve daily living conditions. The sanctuary also provides jobs for about one hundred local residents. Tourism partners say the project shows how wildlife protection and economic growth can be connected. Visitors learn about conservation while their spending supports education and health programs. Conservation workers believe this model encourages cooperation between people and wildlife. By focusing on local knowledge and long-term planning, Reteti aims to create a balanced relationship between nature and community development.