Name:Shaka....the rescued lion cub
it all started when Shazaad Kasmani spotted the 4-month old cub under a bush in Ngutuni/Tsavo East National ParkPrivacy pen">Type
pen: All content is public.Contact Info Recent News News:This is how events unfolded:
April 4 at 9:54am Shazaad Kasmani I've just found a lone 4 month old lion cub with a broken leg. Have dispatched KWS for a rescue and I'm waiting on site
Dina Steinhauser can't u send us the cub?
April 4 at 10:21am • Jane Spilsbury Nice work!
April 4 at 10:48am • Shazaad Kasmani I'm still watching over the cub, the leg is in a bad way. Am making constant calls to KWS warden to get the vet here asap! Being an easter holiday you can imagine the logistics situation!
April 4 at 11:02am • Mohammed Hersi Wea about? Which park I can also make one or 2 calls
April 4 at 11:08am • Shazaad Kasmani I finally got the vet on the phone!
April 4 at 11:10am • Shazaad Kasmani Hello mohammed, I'm at ngutuni sanctuary near ngutuni hill. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.
April 4 at 11:13am • Jane Spilsbury Can you post a pic of the cub Shazaad?
April 4 at 11:14am • Shazaad Kasmani Vet has arrived fron the sheldrick trust. We are now doing an investigation on the injury.
April 4 at 11:24am • Vishal Khosla @Shazaad,you are doing a great job.
April 4 at 11:31am • Shazaad Kasmani We have concluded that the injury has severe swelling and the cub is too young to survive on its own. The cub has been abandoned by the pride. The vet is now driving back to voi to get a cage for the capture. This will take another hour or so. I'm waiting on site monitoring the cubs movement, until the vet returns. Iv named this brave little soul Shaka, after shaka zulu (which is also my nickname).
April 4 at 11:33am • Shazaad Kasmani The vet has been intouch and after talking with the curator of the nairobi orphanage, its been decided that we keep monitoring Shaka until later this evening and see if the pride returns. If they don't, he will be caught and taken to Nairobi.
April 4 at 12:09pm • Jane Spilsbury great story for awareness Shazaad and super to have your one the spot updates!
April 4 at 12:36pm • Shazaad Kasmani Shaka is now taking a little snooze, poor guy looks very tired and is in pain.
April 4 at 12:46pm Jane Spilsbury Thanks we are doing our own monitoring from Watamu
April 4 at 1:00pm Shazaad Kasmani Thanks for being with us all the way Jane 
April 4 at 1:05pm • Mohammed Hersi Amamzing what technology can do.were it not for cellphone Shaka wld be dead, were it not 4 FB sum of us not closeby wld not av been able to help. Shazad uve spent many hours out of u r normal schdule n uve embraced the save the african lion campaign,u r efforts r not in vain.
April 4 at 2:28pm • Tirsa Xie wish him get well soon
April 4 at 3:02pm • Shazaad Kasmani Shaka is peacefully resting and trying to conserve energy. I'm attempting to redirect safari minibuses away from the site so he can rest undisturbed. Everyone is being cooperative.
April 4 at 3:27pm • Reenal Khakhar Shaka needs help with his broken leg- I don't think it will be a good idea to leave him in the wild, the pride won't accept him as they know he is injured and will slow them down. He may die of infection, poor thing. Please get him to the orphanage, thanks.
April 4 at 3:40pm • Mohammed Hersi Am also intouch with Tsavo east warden mr Aden. Do u need any further help from KWS, I guess taking Shaka out of the park can only be done by KWS authority
April 4 at 4:26pm • Shazaad Kasmani Its now going to rain heavily and I will be forced to head back to mombasa soon. I cannot reach the vet to ask if he is coming back. Mohammed kindly try to use your networks to send the KWS team back here.
April 4 at 4:34pm • Mohammed Hersi Av spoken to Dr Ngure from KWS and he confirms that the cub does not have a broken leg but could be a dislocation. He reaasured me that sumtyms the lioness may not far away. They will monitor the situation and if no mother is seen then they'll move the cub. Uve done all u could, get us some pics I suggest u now move besides 6pm is approaching fast 4 u 2 exit the park.
April 4 at 4:41pm • Shazaad Kasmani ...There was no sign at all the whole day of his pride returning, and chances are, he has been abandoned by the mother so she can move ahead with the rest of her family. I have been assured that someone will come to look for Shaka first thing in the morning. If he is still there, he will be taken to Nairobi orphanage. Let us all pray for Shaka's
protection tonight. I will be following up with Dr Ndere and Mr Muema first thing in the morning, and all your support in getting this actioned will be appreciated.
April 4 at 6:42pm Jane Spilsbury are you still there?
April 4 at 9:09pm 'Amandeep' 'Singh' 'Kalsi' Whoz land cruzer is that?? N hws the cub nw?
April 4 at 9:37pm • Shazaad Kasmani Upon inspection this afternoon, we saw that Shaka's leg was not broken but possibly dislocated. He has a big red bruise on his front left limb and locomotion is extremely difficult. If he tries to walk, his injured leg hangs motionless and is just being dragged on the ground.
I heart breakingly had to leave Shaka at 6pm and i am now back in Mombasa. Before leaving, i was joined by Mr Muema from the Trust and he assured me he would follow up with Shaka first thing in the morning. I was really concerned about Shaka sleeping under that acaccia shrub, open to the elements and to the night preditors, i was hoping he would make his way to one of the crevices in the foothill, and just on que, he got up and very very slowly limped and dragged his way to the foot of Ngutuni Hill where he hid himself between two large rocks. I pray he will remain safe there, until the morning.
April 4 at 9:54pm • Mo Orr How did you happen to find the cub? And how he is now? Thanks for sharing the photos.
April 4 at 11:05pm Sabine Baer Hope the cub will be ok! Thanks for sharing your adventure with us!
April 4 at 11:16pm Dina Steinhauser we also hope he will be safe until 2morrow morning.
Mon at 1:43am • Pradeep Simhan Any word on how the cub is doing ?
Mon at 8:55am • Shazaad Kasmani I have just spoken to Mr Muema, Shaka has made it through the night and is still alone. The family did not return. That's another day with no food or drink for the little guy.
Mon at 9:01am Fąĩžą ٭٭ Hey what's the update? My biggest concern is Shaka survived the night and hope KWS take him in for proper treatment...! He will not be able to survive on his own with a dislocated leg and probably is starving too 
Mon at 9:04am • Shazaad Kasmani I have also spoken to the deputy warden Mr Mureithi, no one is really sure about the next step forward! Its being left upto the vet, who I cannot reach on the phone.
Mon at 9:30am • Shazaad Kasmani Iv been in contact a minute ago with Mr Muema and he is going to check up on Shaka early this afternoon again. I cannot reach the Vet by phone. I am hoping assistance arrives for shaka before night fall!
Mon at 1:18pm • Shazaad Kasmani Am writing and calling everyone i can think of in Tourism and Wildlife Organizations to get involved.
Mon at 1:40pm Jane Spilsbury Do we have an update Shazaad?
Mon at 1:47pm Shazaad Kasmani Muema is checking on Shaka again this afternoon. I cannot reach the vet by phone. I hope Shaka is rescued today, I am trying to appeal to wildlife and tourism to get involved.
Mon at 1:54pm Jane Spilsbury OK. Thanks for your hard work!
Mon at 1:59pm • Shazaad Kasmani I have appealed to Abdulaziz from friends of Tsavo and Special Projects, he is trying to assist by contacting the Tsavo Senior Warden to get invloved.
Mon at 2:20pm • Reenal Khakhar Please, please, this cub needs to be taken away...he will die of starvation or otherwise killed by hyenas- can somebody not do soemthing for this poor guy? Looks like people are just passing the buck....somebody needs to take some action!! Come on you people!
Mon at 2:40pm Jane Spilsbury Is there resistance or are we going through bureacracy?
Mon at 2:57pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ i knowwww! Its just getting toooo much now! why is it taking so long for them to just take shaka in and treat him...!?! C'monnn! These are situations where you don't think twice! It's been 2 days already!
Mon at 3:05pm Shazaad Kasmani Its taking too long, its evening already and I get the feeling there is resistance and a sense of no concern.
Mon at 3:19pm Mohammed Hersi Av tried to get intouch with the Warden but his line is not going thru!
Mon at 3:24pm Shazaad Kasmani Salams mohammed, its now more than 2 days shaka is alone. I am doing everything in my means to help him. Please help!
Mon at 3:25pm Imran Rulia can you not get in touch with najib balala? i am sure if he heard of this he will go out of his way to help.
Mon at 3:46pm Enoch Mobisa Shazaad, thanks for being there for that Lion. It is really frustrating to see that KWS is not that much bothered. Have in-boxed you a number of a friend whom I think can help. Please get in touch with them. They are waiting for your call
Mon at 3:46pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Shaz isn't there anyone who can atleast go out there and give it something to eat...? It'll probably die of starvation and weakness at this rate before it gets any treatment
Mon at 3:57pm Doris Schaule how come so many phones are switched off this afternoon?
Hope Enoch's contact can help!!
Mon at 4:11pm Shazaad Kasmani I have just spoken to Muema who is with Shaka right now. He is resting by the foothill and Muema is also concerned about food for Shaka. Can anyone near voi help us out with some goat meat??
Mon at 4:13pm Jane Spilsbury Bank Holiday Doris????!!!!!
Mon at 4:22pm Shazaad Kasmani Life and Death knows no holidays. Its coming close to night fall, will Shaka have another night, hungry, alone and in pain? I appeal to anyone who can help him!
Mon at 4:22pm Doris Schaule @Jane...yeah I know...but stilll!!!
Mon at 4:23pm •Jane Spilsbury Full marks for Shazaad, I guess the problem is also possible predation.
Mon at 4:34pm • Shazaad Kasmani Shaka needs urgent attention and food, its begining to get dark! Can the key players out there please help!
Mon at 4:55pm • Mo Orr Any progress? Has Shaka been given the help he desperately needs?
Mon at 5:09pm Shazaad Kasmani Paula Kahumbu in Nairobi has just been intouch with me. She thankfully managed to contact someone at the Sheldrick trust who is also concerned about Shaka. The trust has assured they are monitoring Shaka and he may be darted tomorrow. For now, we want to try and get some food out to him. Thank you so much Paula! Please let's try to get him in a safe place.
Mon at 5:11pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Doesn't muema know anyone in the area who could bring out some meat? What are the sanctuary wardens doing?! There must be rangers or people or tourists in the area who could help get meat from even any nearby lodge?! As for those who have their phones switched off... they should not be in such positions if they cannot protect our animals, holiday or not...!
Mon at 5:29pm Shazaad Kasmani I just spoke to Joseph Sauni at the Sheldrick Trust, he assures me that Shaka is being monitored and that the trust is going to organise the capture team to dart Shaka in the morning. He is also liasing with the Warden to try and get some food out to him. Let us pray for Shakas safety tonight and that he stays strong! Thank you Joseph. I hope a team will stay by Shaka tonight.
Mon at 5:37pm Enoch Mobisa Once again, thumbs up to you Shazaad. The biggest danger now is starvation and secondly predation by hyenas. Giving Shaka food would increase chances of survival a great deal. Let's pray that he makes it till tomorrow. Thanks to all of you guys who have shown such great concern.
Mon at 5:46pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Finally some positive news. Good going Shaz 
Cheers to the Shieldrick Trust.
Mon at 6:26pm Shazaad Kasmani Thank you all so much for caring and following the outcome of about Shaka, your prayers mean everything as the sun is setting over Ngutuni Hill. We are not out of the woods yet. Enoch, your contact to Paula has changed the course of this event, thank you!
Mon at 6:59pm Shazaad Kasmani I just got off the phone with Muema, he tells me he got 1/2 kg of meat from Voi and has given it to Shaka to eat. Shaka was very scared so he kept the food close to the crevice and backed away so Shaka could eat peacefully. God bless you Muema! Your support has been immeasurable.
Mon at 7:20pm Jane Spilsbury Excellent work you all and Muema...lets hope the hyenas aren't attracted by the food. This the classic Catch 22 situation.
Mon at 7:29pm Charles Alexander Great work, Shazaad-- thanks so much for the updates. I am praying for a happy ending...
Mon at 7:30pm Jungle Jenny is praying for a happy ending too!
Mon at 8:33pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ That's great, finally some food, things looking up for Shaka but i guess i will be 100% at ease once i know they've finally taken him in for treatment 2mrw
Mon at 9:00pm Shazaad Kasmani Iv just been in contact with the Vet Dr Ndere, he confirms that Shaka will be attended to.
Mon at 9:02pm Charles Alexander Great news! Hope he makes it...Wonderful of you, Shazaad, to demonstrate such compassion and concern...
Tue at 8:50am Doris Schaule any news from Ngutuni, Shazaad???
Tue at 9:00am Shazaad Kasmani I have just called Muema, and he checked up on Shaka this morning, he survived the odds and is looking well. I am now awaiting details of the rescue and treatment which should hopefully happen this morning.
Tue at 10:51am Shazaad Kasmani I have just been contacted by KWS, thank you guys for your response and assistance.
Kenya Wildlife Service commented on your wall post:
"Thanks for the information.The issue has been taken up by our veterinary services in collaboration with the park. We will follow up and make sure “Shaka” is rescued and brought to our orphanage".
Tue at 10:54am • Doris Schaule wonderful news..... it is you we have to be grateful to!!!
Tue at 11:56am Shazaad Kasmani I have been speaking to Joseph of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the team will conduct the rescue today. From Ngutuni, Shaka will be taken to the Tsavo HQ where he will receive treatment and after a few days he'll be taken to KWS Nairobi orphanage. My next concern naturally is what happens to him next? I have been assured he will be well ... See Morelooked after and later introduced to another group of orphans where they will begin to bond. From here rehabilitation will begin, so that he can make his way back into the wild with his new family. The success rate with this has been excellent.
Tue at 12:13pm Jane Spilsbury This is a wonderful example how committed people can make a positive difference working together, spearheaded by Shazaad. A lesson for all of us. This incident has attracted international attention for lions, that can only be an assistance for their cause.
Tue at 12:27pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ That's great news. Hope Shaka recovers soon
Tue at 12:37pm Enoch Mobisa This is wonderful development. Thank you Shazaad and all of you guys who have been on a working holiday. I a glad KWS have finally taken over. KWS, we appreciate your good work and we know your staff are overwhelmed by work but please, try to have an emergency rescue team especially on long holidays like this. Shazaad, Shaka will be well and ideally he/she should be re-introduced/released to the wild as soon as appropriate. But if the injury is so bad that he/she can't support him/herself, keeping him/her in the orphanage may be the only option. KWS will not make a mistake, I am sure
Tue at 1:13pm Jane Spilsbury We certainly echo all of Enoch's sentiments from the coast. And look forward to following the progress of Shaka.
Tue at 2:00pm Shazaad Kasmani Shaka's rescue operation has not began yet. I will keep you all posted on the outcome as I get it.
Tue at 3:29pm Shazaad Kasmani The rescue of Shaka has failed! The team was unable to catch him in the net and there was no doctor available to accompany the team to tranquilize him. Shaka has now moved away from the safety of his crevice and the rescue has been postponed to tomorrow! That's another night alone and the chances of him leaving the hill and getting lost in the park or attacked are too high now.
Tue at 4:20pm Enoch Mobisa Good lord! I know this is frustrating to everyone. I know everyone is trying to do their best especially KWS. I know none of us would do better if they were in charge but under resourced. Hey KWS, please get one of your few vets to accompany the team tomorrow and rescue Shaka. or ask partners like D & Sheldrick to send in their vets. Capturing an animal by net will traumatize and potentially change the behavior of the animal. Just tranquilize Shaka and rescue it peacefully.
Tue at 4:25pm Jane Spilsbury Nail on the head Enoch
Tue at 4:48pm • Doris Schaule just what on earth is going on????
Tue at 4:57pm Shazaad Kasmani I am really trying everything within my means to save Shaka. I just spoke to the deputy warden about what hapenned today.
Tue at 5:39pm • Doris Schaule No doubt about that Shazaad...u must have spent a fortune on airtime etc. & still the job is not done! I feel we should refund part of it through mpesa....
Tue at 5:54pm Shazaad Kasmani Thank you for the offer Doris, I have had to dig into my savings for this, but I really just wish for Shaka to be safe, treated and rehabilitated so he can get back into the wild again soon. If anyone wants to help, I suggest maybe let's save it for if Shaka makes it to the orphanage so we can possibly contribute to his treatment.
Tue at 6:05pm Jane Spilsbury You have my pledge!
Tue at 7:15pm Shazaad Kasmani Thank you Jane, this would mean alot to Shaka's life. Let us pray he is safe tonight and that we find and finally rescue him tomorrow.
Tue at 7:55pm Sameeha Kasmani KWS please help SAVE Shaka
Tue at 9:00pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Hey shaz, read the updates! This is taking way toooo tooooo long! Its day 4 now.... Can you imagine if a serious disease or epidemic ran through the parks?! What would they do?!?! C'mon people! Shaz you got my support for Shaka too
Tue at 9:10pm Shazaad Kasmani Abdulaziz, please this is the time for us to come together, to use our networks and save this countrys heritage, could i please have your assistance for Shaka to be rescued tomorrow by KWS and the sheldrick trust, its is now 4 days since i found him stranded and injured, we must try to help him.
Tue at 9:27pm Amira Claudia Wagner-Khan Shazaad!!! you are doing an excellent job!! please please let us know if we can help in anyway!!...
Tue at 9:31pm Shazaad Kasmani Thank you Amira, please say a prayer for Shaka that today he may be safe at night and he will be hopefully and finally be in safe and caring hands tomorrow.
Tue at 9:52pm Victor Mutumah Ooh this poor lion, I hope it makes it to tomorrow. It is very sad, this anguish has to come to an end tomorrow. I will also be in touch with friends and workmates to try and make a difference. Enoch thanks for letting me know about this.
Tue at 10:38pm Shazaad Kasmani My response to KWS following their reply to my message for help:
Thank you for your prompt action and care for the welfare of Shaka. As you are aware, todays rescue was not successful and it is now day 4 that this injured cub is alone at Ngutuni. We appeal to you to save Shaka at earliest. We understand that resources may be limited, but the life ... See Moreof this cub is very precious. Let us show the world that we can come together to save the life of our national heritage. Let us rescue Shaka and entrust him into your caring hands until he is treated and able to come back to the wild. Thank you.
Wed at 8:10am Fąĩžą ٭٭ hey any news? day 5
Wed at 9:12am Shazaad Kasmani I have just spoken to Muema and he has advised that he has seen Shaka this morning and he is in a safe place. I am awaiting the news of any possible rescue today.
Wed at 9:19am Shazaad Kasmani I have been in contact with Sally Mullens who is the chairlady of MCTA conservation committee and she is willing to assist by any means, iv also spoken to the MCTA chairman Mr. Cleave who is now also getting involved in the rescue.
Wed at 9:20am Dina Steinhauser good news. sending u a big huge from us 4. well done shaz.
Wed at 9:23am Jane Spilsbury Well done MCTA, another good reason why Watamu Marine Association are members!
Wed at 9:27am Shazaad Kasmani I just spoke to the Assistant Director of KWS coast Mr. Gitau and updated him on Shakas situation. He is going to investigate the outcome.
Wed at 10:07am Effie Fernandes well done Shazaad KWS need people like you around
Wed at 10:30am Fąĩžą ٭٭ Great.. i seriously hope today has a positive outcome and Shaka is rescued...! My main concern is infection of the wound on his left shoulder and of course weakness due to lack of food in which case he may also not be able to defend himself if attacked by any other animals.....!
Wed at 10:36am Abdulaziz Abdalla Dear Faiza..I share your concern and I personally was engaged in a similar rescue of two cubs sometime ago, it was challenging given our concern on tranqulizing and difficulties thereof but with the resue team on the ground that should put predators at bay for a while as for the wound I will hope it's not going to aggravate the situation. I have been in touch with the Senior Warden since morning and i trust this will be resolved today.
Wed at 11:10am Victor Mutumah This has to come to an end today! I think all those in KWS with the information about shaka have both the will and capacity to bring this situation to a conclusion. Lets see what the next few hours have in store.
Wed at 11:50am Shazaad Kasmani I have just spoken to Assistant Director Gitau and he assures me a team is being mobilized in Tsavo HQ to save Shaka today. Abdulaziz, thank you from the bottom of our hearts in helping Shaka's cause, hopefully this goes well today.
Wed at 11:54am Jane Spilsbury We are waiting with baited breath.There are many take home lessons from this.
Wed at 12:09pm Enoch Mobisa We all know that lions are highly vulnerable to diseases and a wounded one is a more serious case. It is four days since Shaka was noticed and this means clearly the cub is at a higher risk of infection. KWS, it is now mid day, just make a move. After three days we can't be talking about mobilizing a team. Urgent action is what is now needed.
Wed at 12:26pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Thank you Abdulaziz...! I do hope he is taken in today and promptly treated totally agree with Enoch, it's been tooooo many days and urgent action is required.
Wed at 12:45pm Shazaad Kasmani I have again spoken with MCTA chairman and he is also doing his best. Dear friends of Shaka, let us all learn something from this, KWS needs our constant support with resources to help in emergency situations such as these.
I can't be sure but I believe the only thing holding this back is possibly there is no Vet available right now. Vets are on call constantly with such situations and they could have been dispatched anywhere at anytime. Let us pray we get one to Shaka soon!
Wed at 1:02pm Abdulaziz Abdalla Shaazad, well said even in the best of circumstances KWS is limited with man power resource especially vets. given the current security threats on all fronts on the Rhino & elephant and escalating bush meat poaching KWS is strectched thin on the ground and thats a fact. You all may want to know we lost 12 Rhinos to poachers which is a huge loss and with Tanzanians literally opening.the door to poaching, it has precipitated a crisis in Kenya. again Shaazad, well said, KWS needs all the information it can get and I will be happy to act on any forth coming information. I am posting some critical information on Friends of Tsavos page in a short while for your support
Wed at 1:07pm Abdulaziz Abdalla UPDATE: I just spoke to the Senior Warden, a plane has been dispatched to Nairobi to fly the Vetand other capture equipments down and the team on the ground have visual contact of the cub so its safe while efforts continue to entice Shaka into the cage. ...and the fellow is proving naughty...Hooray to Shaka
Wed at 1:44pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ That's great news...!!
Wed at 1:47pm Shazaad Kasmani I have also just spoken to the senior warden of kws tsavo and he is on site right now. Mr Yusuf has personally taken charge of the rescue. They are trying to entice Shaka into the cage as it is safest way for cub and rescuers. At the same time, as abdulaziz has mentioned, a plane is leaving nairobi with a vet incase Shaka needs to be tranquilized this evening. This is fantastic news!
Wed at 2:00pm Enoch Mobisa That is great news!!
Wed at 2:08pm Shazaad Kasmani News just in, aircraft 5Y_BGR is comissioned with a vet and Capt.Lelesit for heading to Tsavo.
Wed at 2:15pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Way to go Shaz and thank you everyone for your concern and your help. Shaka will be safe tonight.
Wed at 2:30pm Abdulaziz Abdalla Well cheers to all I guess, Yusuf my jolly good friend hs promised a photo with Shaka
Wed at 2:31pm Enoch Mobisa Halleluya!!
Wed at 2:49pm Abdulaziz Abdalla While we all await news on shaka, lions are being poisoned with Furadan and we just lost 5 lions in the recent spate of lion killings in the country
Wed at 2:59pm Jane Spilsbury This all helps to create awareness across the board Abdulaziz. Shaka can do this.
Wed at 3:12pm Shazaad Kasmani KWS is still in Ngutuni and the team are watching Shaka closely, we are waiting for the Vet to arrive.
Wed at 3:32pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ 5 lions? That is really sad! Does anyone have any idea who is behind the lion killings? Poaching is really on the rise, i do hope we can keep poachers off our borders and check the situation or at this rate a lot of our wildlife will be near extinction any luck with getting Shaka in the cage or is he still being cheeky? His spirit is strong, that is a good sign.
Wed at 3:56pm Shazaad Kasmani I have just been in contact with team on site and they are prepared for arrival of the doctor. I have been told by Ngutuni Lodge Manager that Shaka's story has received massive attention and the sanctuary is buzzing with activity. Shaka is Kenya's latest celebrity!
Wed at 4:01pm Jane Spilsbury And we need the attention. I have international none facebook colleagues waiting for news.The suspense is killing.
Wed at 4:14pm Abdulaziz Abdalla just spoke to the senior warden at ngutuni he made me laugh shaka was growling at the warden as he attempted to get close. This should soon come to a close. Shaka just as is the indomitable lions, age counts for nothing as they say
Wed at 4:16pm Abdulaziz Abdalla poaching is rampant and has reached a new high particularly bush meat where dik diks are slaughtered in hundreds so alertness and information will help apprehend the poachers
Wed at 4:17pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Wish I could be on site to watch it all !! Now we pray for Shaka's speedy recovery
Wed at 4:19pm Abdulaziz Abdalla sure...will. I am just laughing after my talk with the warden, reminds me of my scratches from the two cubs. Can tell you this folks, not easy catching a woken lion, cub or no cub. Next time faiza you are on for the rescue
Wed at 4:35pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ That would be a great experience though watching Shaka's rescue would have been very special grown quite attached to him over the past 5 days…!
Wed at 4:35pm Shazaad Kasmani I wish I was by little shakas side right now. My heart aches for him as he must be terrified with all that is happening, naturally he dosnt understand we are doing this in his best interest. If only I was there to put my heart at ease that he is ok. I have full trust however in KWS.
Wed at 4:41pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Don't worry Shaz, I'm sure he'll be fine.. have my trust in KWs too... His terror will only last for a while and once he's fed and treated he will be more comfortable and in less pain of course and hopefully less defensive too.. Hoping for the best..! The little bugger's taken up a special place in all our hearts.
Wed at 4:42pm Abdulaziz Abdalla This is one of the many many heart breaking incidencies we witness every other day. True Jane, this medium helps spread the word
Wed at 4:46pm Enoch Mobisa Sounds the rescue is going on well....Thank you all guys on the ground. While we are on this, there is every reason for us to come up with a comprehensive strategy to protect some of these now locally threatened species. On a visit to Tanzania last year, I was surprised to see how much Furadan is in the stores, packed and distributed from Kenya by Juanco. Five lions had just been poisoned in Tarangire. In Kisumu, agrovet retailers said to me, "why even ask, we have told it is withdrawn so we only sell to people we know". In Kitengela and Machakos, I could not establish who but there is one outlet stocking it. Update on http://baraza.wildlifedirect.org/ and http://stopwildlifepoisoning.wildlifedirect.org/ show a lot of evidence of the pesticide being in use in the country, poisoning wildlife and accidentally killing people. As the KWS staff in Amboseli have said, it is time we said enough is enough. But confrontation will only worsen the situation. We need the support of the community members, we need to educate them and enhance security of their livelihoods. We need government support to BAN importance and sale of Furadan in the region. We need global support to assert on FMC to stop manufacture of Furadan. I think the best way to go, is to start with the current situation. I think Paula is putting together a task force to strategize on how Furadan menace can be dealt with. I suggest we all join the task force and support with ideas... even as we think on Shaka's welfare after rescue today...
Wed at 4:47pm Abdulaziz Abdalla I like that Faiza...little burger...hahaha
Wed at 4:54pm Shazaad Kasmani I have just spoken to senior warden and the vet is almost there. The cage has been prepared. I have asked him to send me pics of the ground operations so it can be shared. MCTA chairman has also called called me and he has spoken to KWS assistant director to ensure Shakas safe handling.
Wed at 4:56pm Abdulaziz Abdalla well reported Enoch, if anyone wants the report of the recent meeting at EAWLS organized by Paula send me your email address. True, Enoch, it requires a Govt, ban and they seem unwilling demanding more evidence and need to rally in the community. We have started this in Taita area where we found carcass of jackals and vultures and evidence of Furadan poisoning. After Shaka i hope as Enoch said all of you will keep yourself appraised on developments on wildlife and threats to their survival.
Wed at 5:02pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Great.. looking forward to the pictures
Wed at 5:05pm Doris Schaule well said...Abdulaziz...we all have to remain alert, support KWS where we can... be concious about the daily assault on Kenya's wildlife & appreciate what all you guys are doing to safe this little, deserted lion. Let's visit parks & reserves more often!!!
Wed at 5:42pm Abdulaziz Abdalla Sure Doris...I am pleased especially with you as you have kept me on my toes with information. The more we get involved the more chances we have in making a diffrence
Wed at 6:11pm Shazaad Kasmani Iv been informed that Vet is now preparing the tranquilizer dose as the caging attempt didn't follow through.
Wed at 6:14pm Shazaad Kasmani Any moment now my friends!
Wed at 6:25pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ fingers crossed!
Wed at 6:33pm Shazaad Kasmani THEY HAVE SHAKA!!!! WOOOHOOOOOO!
Wed at 6:34pm Nausheen Mohamedali Kasmani We are following Shaka's recovery. Thanks for the updates Shazad and you deserve a huge pat on the back. I hope Shaka gets well soon. Thank you everyone for playing a role in helping this cub. It's the pride of Kenya!
Wed at 6:37pm Shazaad Kasmani OMG! Its a miracle and I am soooo excited that shaka is finally safe!! They are rushing him to KWS research station to administer some antibiotics and feed him. Oh man, its such an amazing feeling after all this hard work, thank you everyone for participating and caring so passionately about Shaka.
Wed at 6:39pm Jane Spilsbury I think we can all massive thanks to evryone one the ground who made this happen on so many levels and to you Shazaad to have worked tirelessly. now for text stage. This is thrilling news!!
Wed at 6:51pm Doris Schaule incredible news....no worries tonight about a defenceless little lion in the wild! Big THANK YOU to all actors in this nerve wrecking liveshow!!!!
Wed at 6:52pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Finally! That's awesome news. Great going Shaz for being persistent and determined to save Shaka and thank u to everyone who has shown their support and esp KWS and the rescue team for finally making it happen. Praying that Shaka's injury is not too severe and he recovers fast! It is an amazing feeling knowing he is safe and will receive treatment it would have been really upsetting if we had lost Shaka at such a young age.
Wed at 7:23pm Enoch Mobisa Finally, Awesome news, victory for Shaka. Hopefully the injury will heal soon. A big big 'thank you' to you guys on the ground! Shazaad, without you on the ground and your tireless effort, Shaka would most likely be unrecorded statistics. Thank you so much. KWS, asante Sana. Now that we have been brought together by Shaka the celebrity, I hope we will continue the good course of conserving our natural heritage.
Wed at 9:33pm Victor Mutumah This has been very good. Thanks all for the good will. We all have the responsibility to play our part to safeguard our heritage. Again heko kwa KWS and all those who spent alot of time helping this poor cub get help. We need continued commitment to ensure similar and related issues are swiftly attended to.
Wed at 10:54pm Shazaad Kasmani Dear friends of wildlife and friends of our beloved Shaka, this has truly been an epic journey, from the moment i found little Shaka at Ngutuni Hill early sunday morning, up until the moment of his successful rescue.
There are really alot of people i need to thank for helping to make this rescue finally possible. Believe it or not, but its amazing the number of people out there who sent me facebook messages and sms's, these are people who were genuinely willing to help with all their heart and were so kind as to forward the details of key contacts to help get our final result.
I wish to thank, Muema who has been my ground liaison from the very beginning, Dr Ndere and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust for promptly responding to my very first SOS call. A big asante to the entire KWS team, Mr Mureithi, Mr Gitau, and especially to Mr Yusuf for personally handling the rescue operations today and mobilizing full logistics support when it mattered. Mr Abdulaziz of FOT trust, Mr Hersi, Mr Cleave and Sally Mullens of MCTA , it is thanks to your sound reputations and respect in the tourism community that Shaka's voice was finally heard. Asif who was with me on the safari, the people at Ngutuni Sanctuary, Joesph of the D/S Trust, and everyone else who was there or intouch. ...
Most importantly however...the one i sincerely have to thank is YOU! Everyone who commented on these posts, shared them with the world, and religiously followed Shakas amazing adventure. Without your collective voice this would never have become reality. Shakas cry, literally became Shaka's Roar thanks to you! Shaka's story has now created a new dimension towards animal conservation in our country. People who had never even met before, came together with immense strength to make a difference in a life threatening situation, and this, helped save a precious life!
Shaka's story however has not come to an end. Our dedication and mission is now to see Shaka treated and rehabilitated so he can get back to his home in the wild, this chapter is beginning now.
By working together with KWS, Abdulaziz and I will be forming a special fund to help towards the medical treatments of Shaka, and once these have been met, any extra funds will be maintained in Shaka's special account to help other orphaned and injured lions who share a similar fate as Shaka. We shall update you once this is ready for your kind contributions.
On behalf of Shaka who is now resting at the KWS research centre; now warm, safe and building his strength for the flight to the Orphanage tomorrow, THANK YOU!!
Thu at 4:56am Ayesha Jain actually, I think you are the one we have to thank, Shazaad. Without your love and heart for the little guy, without you reaching out to others, and without the constant dedication and drive- this story would have had an alternate ending. All the credit goes to you. Let's all thank this brave one. It's not easy doing what he did. xxx A
Thu at 8:52am Effie Fernandes Shazaad, you deserve a big pat on your back for a job well looked into till the little cub was rescued and is now in a safe place. well done boy
Thu at 9:10am Doris Schaule I very much like the idea of setting up a fund...keep us posted, Shazaad!!! Am looking forward also to a facebook wall/page were all this info can be gathered and ppl can follow progress easily...
Thu at 10:10am Jane Spilsbury
Looking forward to all this and further updates too! You in Watamu today Shazaad?
Thu at 10:14am Shazaad Kasmani Senior warden has just told me that he saw Shaka this morning. He is looking good and healthy and he is really a fiesty little boy! Hehe.
Thu at 10:17am Shazaad Kasmani Hi Jane, I will be in Watamu tomorrow let's meet if you have some time. Thanks
Thu at 10:21am Fąĩžą ٭٭ Awesome! How is his leg and the extent of the wound? He has a strong will to live and that's what's got him through too.. You can just see it in his eyes in your pictures Shaz Great to hear the positive news !
Thu at 3:31pm Jane Spilsbury Very interesting and forward thinking initiative! You have our support.
Thu at 3:35pm Shazaad Kasmani Dear friends of Shaka. As promised to you, we are now working on the next step of Shaka's recovery and our aim is now to firstly remain together and stand by him in his time of need. We all wish to have Shaka treated, rehabilitated and brought back to his home in Tsavo Ngutuni as soon as possible. Senior KWS Warden Yusuf Aden, Abdulaziz of Friends of Tsavo and I are presently working on a plan to have Shaka's residence in Nairobi Orphanage to be a temporary one.
With your help, we plan to create the 'Shaka Conservation Fund', which will hopefully change the concept of conservation all together. Our plan is to develop a Rehabilitation and Temporary Placement Centre with KWS in Tsavo for Lions, Cheetahs, Hyenas and all other wildlife that have fallen victim to injury, sickness, traps, snares and the like. The mission of this centre would be to avoid expatriation of animals to Nairobi and now offer on the spot treatment and rehabilitation of our beloved wildlife patients. From here they would be immediately released back into their wild habitats. Naturally our goal is to make Shaka the first candidate to this wonderful program.
Let us keep the spirit of Shaka high and stay united to make his dream a reality. We wish to have you all actively involved in this at all levels and any updates on Shaka's Conservation Fund will be immediately sent to you.
Thank you all once again for all your efforts with Shaka and for your continued support in making this happen.
Thu at 3:37pm • Shazaad Kasmani Shaka is doing very well. And he finished all his food like a good boy
Thu at 4:14pm Doris Schaule ..is he getting a menu or eating a la carte )?? Thank you for this very good news...let's keep the "momentum" and do what u have been suggesting...putting up something that will help in all similar cases that might occur in future...
Thu at 4:31pm Shazaad Kasmani Hehe he's not fussy at the moment and is happy to get a good meal. Let us help make this centre and bring Shaka home
Thu at 4:36pm Jane Spilsbury Identifying the big donors all the usual suspects IFAW Disney, AFEW,WSPAas well as the little folk. Rehab centres attract a lot of attention. Are we to understand that there is a gap in the market here i.e. this is the first of it's kind in Tsavo and much needed.
Thu at 6:07pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ The rehab centre is a great idea and glad 2hear Shaka is doing well
Thu at 6:35pm Shazaad Kasmani Yes this would be a new dimension for conservation of wildlife in Tsavo and we are extremely keen to make it happen together with all of you
Thu at 10:24pm Raabia Hawa i have just spoken to someone, and just to let you know, should the situation arise where shaka must be held ant the orphanage,he will be kept in a spacious enough enclosure hopefully with minimal visitor interference. thanks again to shazaad for the good work, keep it going people, there are lives to save! love always, Raabia
Thu at 10:42pm Shazaad Kasmani To keep the friends of Shaka updated on the recent events, Shaka is still at the Research Centre at Voi. He is receiving the utmost professional care and attention from KWS vets.
Senior Warden has been closely monitoring his progress and Shaka is unfortunately still not ready to be transferred to Nairobi. The moment his strength is up, he will then be expatriated for the specialized treatment.
Working together with you all, Abdulaziz, KWS and MCTA conservation committee, we sincerely would want Shakas status at the orphanage to be temporary and with your continued backing towards making the Shaka Conservation Fund happen, we wish to naturally bring him back to Tsavo after he is treated. From here he will be rehabilitated back into the wild. The proposed treatment and rehabilitation centre would be the milestone to making this a reality for him, and all wildlife that needs assistance. Together we can do this
Thu at 10:46pm Ayesha Jain Hi raabia, I've heard you have your own radio broadcasting station, and what a great story this would be! Maybe you should think about sharing this wonderful story with others- to give shazaad the chance and full credit he truly deserves in making this happen! Just a thought! Tc XX A
Thu at 10:50pm Raabia Hawa not a bad idea ayesha, its not my own radio station, but i do a weekly show on wildlife on it, so, shazaad, pls expect my call sometime tomorrow to arrange the same! if possible, pls do get on board your friend mr.aden and abdulaziz as well, it would make for a well rounded and fabulous story
Thu at 10:57pm Fąĩžą ٭٭ Definitely Shaz Any estimated idea on how long it will take for Shaka to fully recover before he can be released back into the wild where he truly belongs?
Thu at 10:57pm Jane Spilsbury I am reassured that Raabia's enquiries (thank you) have revealled that Shaka will have adequate space. It would be tragic should he become yet another cat in a concrete cage. KWS would be best advised formulatiing a a clear rehab strategy in consulation with relevant NGO's and experienced experts.
Fri at 10:57am Abdulaziz Abdalla Dear All Friends in Conservation, with the Senior Warden, a personal collegue, and as Shaazad said we are working on a long term initiative in setting up a rescue/ holding pen for similar cases that may arise. It's been long overdue as Shaka has just catalyzed this into an action plan. Once we have the framework ready, we will invite all Friends of Shaka and wildlife conservation to engage in the implementation.
Fri at 11:00am Abdulaziz Abdalla Raabia, sounds a good plan for a radio talk and would also wish to engage you in consultations as we plan foward. You can contact me through Shazaad
Fri at 1:43pm Shazaad Kasmani As per my conversation earlier with Mr Mureithi, Shaka has left the KWS research centre today by air for further treatment and observation at Nairobi Orphanage. He is now receiving constant attention from KWS vets.
