After enduring five years of captivity and exploitation in Europe, two lion cubs, Yoda and Ysis, have finally made their way back to their homeland in Africa. These cubs were once used as props in music videos and on social media, subjected to animal cruelty by their previous owner. However, in 2020, they were rescued by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation and rehabilitated at the Tonga Terre d’Accueil association in France.
Their journey back to Africa began with a flight from Lyon to Paris, followed by an Air France flight to Johannesburg. Thanks to the funding provided by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation, Yoda and Ysis arrived in South Africa last week, marking the beginning of their journey towards freedom.
Upon their arrival, the cubs were welcomed at the SanWild Sanctuary Wildlife Trust in Limpopo, near the Kruger National Park. Here, they will have the opportunity to live in semi-freedom as part of The Roar Project, under the guidance of Alexandre Blanchon. This transition will allow them to gradually adapt to their natural environment and experience the African grass under their paws for the first time.
Genetic tests have confirmed what rescuers suspected all along – Yoda and Ysis are siblings, showcasing a strong bond that has been evident since their rescue.
Wilson Tauro, the Country Manager for Southern Africa at Air France-KLM, expressed the airline’s commitment to animal welfare, stating, “Repatriating Yoda and Ysis is a proud moment for us. It’s about giving these lions the life they deserve while reinforcing South Africa’s role in wildlife rehabilitation.” The airline’s support of ethical wildlife transport highlights the importance of collaboration between conservation groups and responsible carriers.
Yoda and Ysis’ return to Africa marks the end of their long journey and the beginning of a new chapter in the wild. The efforts to rescue and rehabilitate these cubs serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving wildlife for future generations to come.
