Three Lions, One Extraordinary Rescue: Lubumbashi, Kalemi and Kolwezi Celebrate 16 Years of Sanctuary at LIONSROCK
Sixteen years after their rescue from the DRC, the lions celebrate their rescueversary at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in the Free State
Bethlehem, 23 March 2026 - On 31 March 2010, lions Lubumbashi, Kalemi, and Kolwezi arrived at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary after being rescued by FOUR PAWS from inadequate captive conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Their journey marked the beginning of a new chapter, one defined by safety, specialised care and the dignity they had long been denied.
Now, on 31 March 2026, the trio celebrates 16 years of sanctuary life, symbolising South Africa’s growing leadership in ethical big cat care and the Free State’s role as a sanctuary stronghold.
Lubumbashi, Kalemi and Kolwezi each have unique needs. Whether it is dental treatment, age‑related mobility issues, or careful weight management, our team adapts to ensure they live comfortably and with dignity.
Lubumbashi: Ongoing care for a resilient lion
Lubumbashi has required continued medical attention over the years.
- He underwent two rounds of dental treatment, as the severity of the issues meant it could not be completed in one procedure.
- He has a sensitive gut and struggles to maintain weight, so his care team closely monitors his faeces, diet and digestion.
- He additionally receives probiotics and joint supplements to support his overall wellbeing.
Despite these challenges, Lubumbashi continues to enjoy the peace and space of sanctuary life, a testament to the importance of long‑term, specialised care.
Kalemi: Stable and ageing naturally
Kalemi has remained stable, with no recent major veterinary interventions.
- As she has not required clinical assessment in some time, no new health findings are currently available.
- Her steady condition reflects the value of a stress‑free, species‑appropriate environment where her needs can be met without invasive procedures unless necessary.
Kalemi’s calm, consistent lifestyle is a quiet but meaningful sanctuary success.
Kolwezi: Managing mobility challenges with expertise and compassion
Kolwezi receives ongoing monitoring due to age‑related conditions.
- She has spondylosis and worn discs, which sometimes cause her back to arch.
- At times, she displays hip lameness, a condition the veterinary team manages with targeted monitoring and adjusted care routines.
Her resilience, coupled with attentive medical oversight, allows her to maintain a good quality of life despite these chronic issues.
A South African sanctuary with global impact
The rescueversary of Lubumbashi, Kalemi and Kolwezi highlights:
- LIONSROCK as a dedicated sanctuary for ethical big cat welfare.
- South Africa’s leadership in animal welfare reforms.
- FOUR PAWS’ commitment to providing lifelong care and ending exploitation of big cats worldwide.
Sixteen years later, their story continues to inspire, proving that with expertise, patience and compassion, even the most vulnerable animals can rediscover safety, comfort and dignity.
For more information, please visit our website lionsrock.org
/ENDS
Deidre Daniels
Public Relations Officer+27 (0)21 702 4277
+27 (0)78 675 8220
9B Bell Crescent, Westlake Business Park,
Green Building, Cape Town, 7945
A Public Relations professional with over eight years’ experience in fostering positive relationships between organisations and media.
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FOUR PAWS is the global animal welfare organisation for animals under direct human influence, which reveals suffering, rescues animals in need and protects them. Founded in 1988 in Vienna by Heli Dungler and friends, the organisation advocates for a world where humans treat animals with respect, empathy and understanding. The sustainable campaigns and projects of FOUR PAWS focus on companion animals including stray dogs and cats, farm animals and wild animals – such as bears, big cats and orangutans – kept in inappropriate conditions as well as in disaster and conflict zones. With offices in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, France, Germany, Kosovo, the Netherlands, Switzerland, South Africa, Thailand, Ukraine, the UK, the USA and Vietnam as well as 13 wild animal sanctuaries and cooperation projects across the globe, FOUR PAWS provides rapid help and long-term solutions. www.four-paws.org.za