Shepherds of the Elephants

Like all national parks in Ethiopia, Chebera Churchura National Park has wildlife rangers responsible for monitoring animals and their habitats. These rangers also guide visitors, ensuring safety for both people and wildlife.

What distinguishes the rangers of Chebera is their title as “shepherds of the elephants.” Before 2005, the park was a hunting ground where poachers decimated the elephant population. Following the establishment of the national park in 2005 to combat this decline, local hunters were surprisingly recruited as guardians of the elephants they once hunted. This transformation challenges the notion of “the ox befriending the butcher,” revealing a genuine commitment to conservation.

These former hunters have become dedicated protectors, viewing the elephants with the same care a mother gives her child. Rather than harming the animals, they are prepared to sacrifice themselves for their safety. Due to limited vehicles and personnel, the rangers patrol the jungle like shepherds, monitoring herds 24/7. Each herd is tracked by two rangers who adapt their movements to the elephants’, living in the jungle for a month at a time. Monthly rotations ensure continuous protection against poachers.

However, the rangers face a critical shortage of essentials like uniforms and equipment. Despite their dedication to protecting the elephants, many are forced to seek other jobs for survival.

To address these challenges, stakeholders such as the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Tourism must step up to support both the sustainability of the park and the rangers’ vital work.

Chebera Churchura National Park is located 

in Southwestern Ethiopia, Dawro Zone, 

Konta Woreda.

Text and Photos by Michael Metaferia

instagram.com/michael.metaferia