The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust was established in memory of David Sheldrick, founder Warden of Kenya’s giant Tsavo East National Park. From its inception in 1977 the Trust has played an extremely significant and important role in Kenya’s conservation effort. Tsavo National Park is the Trust’s main focus. It is Kenya’s largest wildlife refuge, and offers the best long-term hope for the perpetuation of a greater number of species than any other Park in the world. The Trust has also been active in an educational capacity in the Nairobi area, as well through articles for the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya and the Press. It has funded field trips for students and provided advanced training in wildlife management for promising students.
Dr. Daphne Sheldrick manages the animal orphanage, at the edge of Nairobi National Park, where she oversees the rehabilitation of numerous elephant, rhino and other animal orphans. Through the Trust’s input, other elephants have been saved elsewhere in Africa. Many older elephant orphans have been retrieved in an emaciated condition during drought periods, and once rehabilitated, have been successfully reunited with wild herds. In the summer of 2001 members of FOAI visited with Dr. Sheldrick and discussed ways that Friends of Africa International might be of service to her efforts in the future. Friends of Africa International has made a financial contributions to her efforts. Dr. Daphne Sheldrick serves on the International Advisory Board of Friends of Africa International.