Donkey Sanctuary in Tanzania Transforms Suffering into Care and Compassion

Animal Aid Abroad, together with our local partner Lake Zone Animal Welfare Organization (LAZAWO), continues to provide a lifeline for working donkeys in Tanzania. In March, three more donkeys were rescued — one injured and two abandoned from the Mwakitoryo gold mine — and safely admitted to the sanctuary. Here, they are receiving the care, kindness, and rehabilitation they need to heal.

Sanctuary as a Lifeline for Donkeys

The LAZAWO sanctuary functions as a dedicated care and rehabilitation center for donkeys who have endured neglect, abandonment, or injury. In March, the team continued treatment for previously admitted animals, including permanent residents who are blind or unfit for work. These donkeys receive assisted feeding, wound care, and medications, ensuring they live with dignity and comfort.

Routine health monitoring, parasite control, and infection management were carried out to support recovery and maintain overall welfare. Every donkey at the sanctuary benefits from daily care and close supervision, reflecting AAA’s commitment to turning burden into care.

New Rescue Cases

Among the latest rescues was Ntumizi, an injured donkey admitted for wound care, medication, nutritional support, and ongoing monitoring. His case highlights the cruelty many working animals face, but also the transformation possible when compassion and veterinary expertise come together.

Two retired and abandoned donkeys from Mwakitoryo gold mine were also rescued. Now safe at the sanctuary, they are receiving feeding support, health monitoring, and treatment to restore their wellbeing.

Current Sanctuary Status

The sanctuary is currently caring for 16 donkeys, including those under treatment, permanent residents, and newly rescued animals. Each one is attended to daily by the LAZAWO team and sanctuary staff, ensuring their recovery and long‑term welfare.

Global Impact Made Possible by You

This work is only possible thanks to your support. Funding for medications, feed, transport, and veterinary services enables LAZAWO to rescue donkeys from suffering and provide them with safety, comfort, and peace. Every donation helps transform lives — proving that local partnerships are the key to global change.

Together, we are ensuring that donkeys once abandoned or injured are now living with compassion, dignity, and care.