Arriving on 20 November 2019, the striking white lioness named Uhuru arrived at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, accompanied by her brother Jua. Their return marked a full-circle moment in a journey that began over a decade earlier on the very land that would later become their lifelong sanctuary.

Born in 2006, Uhuru—whose name means Freedom in Swahili—and her brother Jua, meaning Sun, were two of eight lions originally owned by a private individual operating on the LIONSROCK property before it became a sanctuary. When the property changed hands and the future of the lions became uncertain, their lives hung in the balance. The threat of being sold into the brutal canned hunting industry in South Africa loomed large.

Recognizing the urgency, a compassionate businesswoman from Johannesburg stepped in and negotiated their release. Determined to protect them from a grim fate, she purchased all eight lions and found a safe haven for them—most were rehomed at a nature reserve in the Eastern Cape, where they were able to live in peace, only encountering humans for feeding and medical care.

As the years passed and Uhuru and Jua aged, it became clear they would require more specialised care to ensure their continued well-being. Their devoted owner reached out to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, requesting that the sanctuary welcome the siblings back to their birthplace—this time, as permanent residents in a true sanctuary environment.

Uhuru and Jua returned to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in 2019, older and wiser, but safe and cared for. Sadly, in October 2022, Jua had to be humanely euthanised due to age-related health complications. Uhuru remains with us, a living symbol of resilience and the power of second chances.

Their journey is a testament to the impact that dedicated individuals and ethical sanctuaries can make in the lives of animals once exploited—and a reminder that freedom is a right every wild animal deserves.