Mama Amina breaks down in tears as ‘Aisha,’ the ostrich she rescued and raised during the drought, begins a new chapter under Kenya Wildlife Service care.
ASAL POST | ENVIROMENT & WILDLIFE | July 15, 2026
WAJIR – An emotional farewell unfolded in Ademasajida, Wajir West Constituency, after the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) took custody of Aisha, an ostrich that had been rescued during a devastating drought and lovingly raised by a local family for more than a year.
The touching moment saw Mama Amina, who had cared for Aisha since she was a vulnerable chick, overcome with emotion as wildlife officers prepared to transport the bird to its new home.
Having nurtured Aisha through one of the region’s most difficult droughts, Mama Amina had formed a deep bond with the ostrich, treating her as part of the family. The farewell moved relatives, neighbours and onlookers who had witnessed the unique relationship between the woman and the bird.
From Rescue to Recovery
According to local residents, Aisha was rescued at the height of the drought when survival for many wild animals had become increasingly difficult.
With food, shelter and constant care provided by Mama Amina and her family, the young ostrich gradually recovered and grew into a healthy adult.
Over the months, Aisha became a familiar sight around the homestead, symbolising hope, resilience and the compassion of communities living alongside wildlife in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands.
A New Chapter in the Wild
The Kenya Wildlife Service said relocating Aisha would allow her to live in her natural habitat alongside other ostriches, where she can contribute to conservation and future breeding programmes.
Wildlife experts note that while community members often rescue injured or orphaned wild animals, returning them to protected habitats is essential for their long-term welfare and for maintaining healthy wildlife populations.
For Mama Amina, however, the decision was bittersweet.
Despite the pain of saying goodbye, she expressed hope that Aisha would thrive in her new environment, interact with other ostriches and one day raise chicks of her own.
A Story of Compassion and Conservation
The story of Aisha has resonated with many Kenyans, highlighting the important role local communities play in protecting wildlife during times of crisis.
KWS commended the family’s care and cooperation, describing the successful relocation as an example of the strong partnership between communities and conservation authorities in safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage.
As Aisha embarks on a new life in the wild, Mama Amina’s act of kindness remains a powerful reminder that compassion can make the difference between life and death for vulnerable wildlife.
The emotional farewell in Wajir is not only a story of parting but also one of hope—demonstrating how ordinary citizens and conservation agencies can work together to ensure Kenya’s wildlife continues to thrive for future generations.
