THE SHELDRICK WILDLIFE TRUST 

As one of Africa’s oldest wildlife charities and a leading conservation organisation, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) embraces all measures that complement the conservation, preservation and protection of wildlife.

Established more than 40 years ago, the charity is best known for its Orphans’ Project, the first and most successful elephant orphan rescue and rehabilitation program in the world. Working across Kenya, projects include anti-poaching, safeguarding the natural environment, enhancing community awareness, addressing animal welfare issues, providing the veterinary assistance to animals in need, rescuing and hand rearing elephant and rhino orphans, along with other species that can ultimately enjoy a quality of life in wild terms when grown.

Wildlife, and in particular elephants, were one of the passions of Kath Gale, one of the GFT’s founding trustees. Having become aware of the SWT during 2021, the trustees have formed a good relationship with the SWT’s UK office and discussions have been held exploring how the GFT can become long term supporters of Sheldrick in memory of Kath. Whilst these discussions progressed, an idea came to mind that would benefit the SWT as well as providing interesting presents for our Mission Christmas 2021 appeal.