Air France gets lions home
Air France-KLM recently announced the successful repatriation of two lion cubs, Yoda and Ysis, to South Africa.
Victims of animal rights abuses in Europe and once exploited for use in music videos, the two lions were rescued in 2020 by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation (30 Million Friends Foundation) and then cared for by the Tonga Terre d’Accueil association at the Saint-Martin-la-Plaine Zoological Park.
The journey home for Yoda and Ysis began with a flight from Lyon to Paris, then followed by Air France flight AF 990 from Paris to Johannesburg. Fully funded by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation, the lions arrived in South Africa on 4 March 2025 and are already settling in to their new home.
From Lyon to Limpopo
Now, after spending the past five years in care, Yoda and Ysis will begin a new chapter at the SanWild Sanctuary Wildlife Trust.
Located in Limpopo, just a few kilometres south of Leydsdorp and near the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, SanWild is a 5 000-hectare wildlife rehabilitation center and reserve.
Under the care of the SanWild team and as part of The Roar Project led by Alexandre Blanchon, the lions will initially live in semi-freedom, allowing them to gradually re-adapt to their natural environment.
Genetic tests have since confirmed that they are siblings, a bond that has been evident since they were rescued.
Wilson Tauro, Country Manager Southern Africa at Air France-KLM, expressed his pride in the airline’s commitment to animal welfare.
“Air France is dedicated to ensuring that distressed wildlife is given the opportunity to return home. Repatriating Yoda and Ysis is a proud moment for us and reinforces South Africa’s reputation as a premier destination for wildlife rehabilitation,” Tauro said.
“We are committed to transporting live animals safely and efficiently, and we believe that our efforts will help these lions begin a new life at SanWild Sanctuary.” Tauro also added.
Do you think more should be done for trafficked animals around the world?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
