Google Doodle commemorates Ahmed the Elephant, born in 1919 on the lush grounds of Mount Marsabit in the Kenyan forests, with a vibrant doodle featuring illustrations of elephants and tourists.
While Ahmed’s early life remains shrouded in mystery, his story gained global attention in the 1960s when avid hikers in the Northern Kenya mountains stumbled upon the majestic creature. Notable for his colossal tusks, so immense they reportedly scraped the ground, Ahmed earned the moniker “The King Of Marsabit.”
The legend of Ahmed quickly spread across Kenya, capturing the imagination of the public and media alike. Television projects, including an ABC series and a documentary in 1970, further propelled the charismatic elephant into the spotlight.
As pop culture rose, a groundswell of support emerged from school children advocating for Ahmed’s protection against poachers. Moved by their impassioned letters, Kenya’s first President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, issued a Presidential Decree placing Ahmed under state protection.
To safeguard the iconic pachyderm, two security guards were appointed to watch over Ahmed day and night. Ultimately, Ahmed passed away at the age of 55 due to natural causes. In the wake of his demise, Kenya celebrated his legacy, and President Kenyatta directed taxidermists to preserve Ahmed’s body at the Nairobi National Museum, where it remains meticulously displayed for future generations.
The impact of Ahmed’s story reaches far beyond Kenya’s borders, resonating across the globe. The Google Doodle honoring him has made waves in various countries, including Kenya, Iceland, Uruguay, Chile, Pakistan, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, among others. Ahmed’s tale serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation and the enduring legacy of a remarkable elephant.
