With 53 elephants now in Reteti’s care, the sanctuary has grown beyond the 40 elephants that the original milk preparation unit was designed to support. As the herd grows, so does the need for equipment that can keep up with the demands of caring for so many young elephants, each with their own nutritional needs.
Thanks to the generosity of 380 incredible donors who supported our Women’s Day Campaign this year, Reteti was able to acquire a new pasteuriser for the smallest calves at the sanctuary – helping to keep them nourished, safe, and thriving.
What do baby elephants drink?
Reteti’s youngest orphaned elephants, aged just 0–3 months, have especially sensitive tummies and therefore every milk bottle must be prepared with the greatest care to give them the best possible start in life. The new pasteuriser allows the team to safely heat and then cool small batches of fresh goat’s milk – supplied by local Milk Mamas – especially for the smallest orphans.
Preparing around 20 litres at a time, the pasteuriser helps eliminate harmful bacteria while protecting the quality of the milk before it’s mixed into the carefully balanced formula Reteti’s baby elephants depend on.
The Milk Mamas behind every bottle
This crucial new piece of equipment marks an important step forward for the Milk to Market Program and forms part of a beautiful cycle of care which supports local women and their families while providing nourishment for orphaned elephants. Working closely with the Milk Mamas, Samburu Eco Rangers help ensure a consistent supply of high-quality goat’s milk for the youngest calves before the milk is brought to Reteti – where it’s pasteurised to make it safe for these babies.
“The pasteuriser has truly been a game changer for us. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our donors for helping support both the elephants and the Reteti community.”
Peter Lenasalia, Reteti Manager
From our hearts to yours
Every fresh beginning, story of hope, and joyful reunion is part of the path we walk together – and none of this would be possible without the incredible support of people who share our vision. Their generosity helps us strengthen the care provided at Reteti while continuing to support the women and communities at the heart of the Milk to Market program.
From Reteti’s keepers, the Milk Mamas, and the little babies whose bottles are now being prepared with brand-new equipment, ashe oleng!
