The Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa has embarked on a heartwarming journey of hope and resilience with the release of Nkanyiso, a once-captive cheetah, and her four cubs into the wild at the Nyosi Wildlife Reserve. This pivotal moment not only highlights the success of rewilding efforts but also represents a broader movement to protect vulnerable species in Southern Africa.
Nkanyiso first stepped into the Nyosi Wildlife Reserve in April 2023, as part of a dedicated collaborative rewilding initiative involving the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, The Metapopulation Initiative, and the reserve itself. Following years of captivity, Nkanyiso underwent a meticulously monitored rewilding process, where she learned essential skills such as hunting prey and navigating natural terrains without human intervention.
However, in April 2024, Nkanyiso faced an unexpected setback when she suffered a severe leg injury, confirmed to be a fracture in her front right leg. Veterinary experts and devoted field guides sprang into action, not only rescuing and treating her but also discovering that she had given birth to four precious cubs. With extraordinary dedication, the team located the cubs within the expansive 2,500-hectare (6,200-acre) reserve and successfully reunited them with their recovering mother.
After extensive care and a successful surgery, Nkanyiso made a remarkable recovery, receiving the green light from veterinary authorities for her release back into the wild. It signifies a powerful new chapter in the life of Nkanyiso and marks a milestone in efforts to conserve the cheetah population in the region. Alongside her mother, her cubs now bear meaningful names that reflect their journey: Zuko (meaning ‘glory’), Khukhula (meaning ‘storm’), Amani (meaning ‘peace’), and Amira (meaning ‘princess’).
“Nkanyiso’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the incredible possibilities of rewilding,” stated Dr Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane Society. “Her release, alongside her cubs, is a significant achievement for cheetah conservation and a triumph for all who strive to protect endangered species,” she said.
The Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa will continue to monitor Nkanyiso and her cubs via GPS tracking devices to ensure their adaptation to life in the wild contributes to establishing a sustainable and thriving cheetah population in the Eastern Cape.
Taryn Gillson, Regional Director for Africa at the Global Humane Society, remarked, “This release serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of wildlife and underscores the importance of rewilding and long-term conservation efforts. Nkanyiso’s transformation from captivity to a thriving mother embodies the essence of our conservation objectives.”
This groundbreaking rewilding project is a collaborative achievement made possible through the concerted efforts of the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, the Nyosi Wildlife Reserve, and the support of Mantis, a conservation-focused hospitality group. The latter has provided crucial financial backing via donation of ALL – Accor Live Limitless Reward points specifically earmarked for the Cheetah Rewilding Project. Furthermore, The Metapopulation Initiative has played a vital advisory role, guiding best practices for cheetah conservation.
As Nkanyiso and her cubs embark on this new adventure, the commitment to safeguarding Africa’s diverse wildlife continues to thrive, showcasing a commitment to creating safe habitats and fostering a balance between wildlife and human communities.
