A few years ago, the caretaker André Bauman of the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo posed in an emblematic selfies along with several gorillas, one of them was Ndakasi. The iconic image went around the world announcing that fascinating stories of friendship and love between species were intertwined in the bowels of the Congo. Especially the one about the gorilla selfiesNdakasi, a special gorilla who died in the arms of her keeper, André Bauma.
However, there is no corner of the planet where there are no beings that death does not stalk and for the most famous gorilla in Congo, the time to leave had arrived. Tuesday the Virunga National Park would have announced the departure of Ndakasi, a gorilla famous for posing with her keeper in an iconic selfie and for having a unique personality.
GNP
“It is with a heavy heart that Virunga announces the death of orphaned mountain gorilla Ndakasi, who resided in central Senkwekwe” – Virunga National Park
After being rescued at the hands of poachers, Ndakasi enjoyed a peaceful and normal life in an orphanage in Virunga Park. But, despite the great care and the extraordinary bond that she formed with Bauma (her caretaker), the gorilla said goodbye in a brotherly hug that surely few of us will forget.
Ndakasi died in the arms of her guard, backed by a lifelong friend. And although he had the best of care, a long illness would have rapidly deteriorated his health until it ended his life.
The story of Ndakasi, a gorilla from selfies very unique
In nature there are stories as tragic as they are full of hope and Ndakasi’s story was one full of love. Just two months after she was born, the gorilla was orphaned due to poaching. Recognizing that she was in a vulnerable situation, experts decided to take her to the Senkekwe Center to care for her and support her development.
The years passed and Ndakasi became one of the star gorillas of the place. She participated in several television programs and documentaries, but it was until the selfies taken by its keeper in April 2019 that the gorilla became world famous.
With a simple image, the whole world realized the talent and natural charisma of the female gorilla. Posing with unique vigor, feet apart and right next to one of her close gorilla friends, Ndeze, they both captured the world’s eye.
For a moment, gorillas became part of human society. The boundaries were blurred and we were reminded that there are many characteristics that unite us. For Bauma, Ndakasi’s caretaker, this connection was more than obvious.
Mathieu Shamavu
“It was a privilege to support and care for such a loving creature, especially knowing the trauma Ndakasi suffered at a very young age. It was Ndakasi’s sweet nature and intelligence that helped me understand the connection between humans and the great ones and why we must do everything in our power to protect them. I am proud to have called Ndakasi my friend.” – Andre Bauma
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