In a touching yet tragic video, we see the final moments of Ndakasi, the photobombing mountain gorilla, in the soft embrace of Andre Bauma, the devoted park ranger who rescued and nurtured her for 14 years.
Ndakasi captured the internet’s heart in 2019 with her charming selfies, shattering the stereotype of a severe gorilla. Her mischievous activities and photobombing abilities made her a famous resident of Congo’s Virunga National Park.
This viral success had a rocky start. Ndakasi’s fate altered when Andre took over as her guardian after she was discovered next to her slain mother, a victim of native hunters’ gunshots. Their unique friendship blossomed at the Senkwekwe Center, where she developed into a vibrant and happy gorilla under Andre’s attentive eye.
Ndakasi became unwell in recent years, her vibrant energy withering. Despite her valiant efforts, she succumbed to the illness, finding refuge in Andre’s embrace in her final moments.
Andre, more than a ranger, became Ndakasi’s longtime companion. Reflecting on their special bond, he expressed thanks for being a part of her path, recognizing the honour of caring for a creature who had overcome early suffering.
This touching story of interspecies friendship is a heartbreaking reminder that friendship transcends species barriers. The tale of Ndakasi and Andre shows the remarkable bonds that may be established between humans and animals, demonstrating the depth of compassion and friendship.
As we say goodbye to Ndakasi, her legacy lives on in the teachings of resilience, friendship, and the beautiful connections that enrich our lives across species boundaries.
