Uhuru and Jua were part of eight lions, a group purchased from the previous owner of LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary. Their destiny hung in the balance, threatened by the cruel canned hunting industry in South Africa. A businesswoman from Johannesburg stepped in, negotiating their release and quickly became their lifeline. 

Uhuru and Jua found refuge in an Eastern Cape nature reserve. Here, they roamed freely, glimpsing humans only during feeding or medical checks. Uhuru’s name meaning “Freedom” in Swahili echoed her newfound life. 

As the years passed, Uhuru and Jua needed specialised care. Their owner faced a difficult decision. Could they return to their birthplace - now LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary? The answer was clear, a homecoming awaited. 

Sadly, in October 2022 Jua passed due to health complications.