THIS letter is with reference to the front page article of the ZO of 13 May, ‘Hippo tale has happy ending’.
Bearing in mind the current scourge of wildlife poaching, I wish to express my greatest appreciation to all the individuals involved in saving the life of the little abandoned baby hippo.
They are all heroes, especially Mr Ngema, who took the big responsibility of arranging the rescue, in conjunction with Frans Mthembu and his staff.
Frans suggested that the baby be named Ngema after his rescuer – excellent idea, and great thinking Frans!
Accepted, baby hippo will forthwith be known as baby Ngema.
Then… Front page article: Independent on Saturday, 14 May, ‘Bay hippo on road to recovery’.
A photo of Baby Ngema and wildlife specialist Karen Trendler at the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage.
Baby Ngema has now amazingly been re-baptized baby Charley.
My question is, is this name change fair and justified in view of all involved in the rescue, especially Mr Ngema.
What significance has the name Charley in this ordeal .
Sorry Baby Ngema, please forgive them for making a ‘Charley’ out of you.
MKHULU FELLELA
