Qatar Airways Cargo Teams Up with Animal Defenders International to Rehome Six Lions
Qatar Airways Cargo has partnered with Animal Defenders International (ADI) to help relocate six young lions from the wildlife trade to a sanctuary in Johannesburg, South Africa. This significant step underscores their ongoing collaborative efforts to safeguard and rewild species.
The six lions, collectively known as the “Kuwait 6,” were initially rescued from the wildlife trade and placed at the Kuwait Zoo. The group includes male lions Muheeb, Saham, Shujaa, and Saif, and female lions Dhubiya and Aziza. Following a request for assistance from Kuwaiti government officials, ADI stepped in to provide the lions with a permanent home at their expansive 455-acre sanctuary in South Africa.
Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, expressed immense pride in the airline’s involvement: “We are proud to once again support ADI, this time by bringing these six beautiful lions home to Africa. Our WeQare Rewild the Planet initiative reflects our commitment to returning wildlife and endangered species to their natural habitats, free of charge. Organizing the transport of such large animals requires considerable effort and logistics—from airport coordination to ensuring the proper cages and the wellbeing of the animals. However, this is something our team is collectively passionate about and proud to be part of.”
Jan Creamer, President of ADI, emphasized the mission's importance: “The Kuwait six lions have their whole lives ahead of them and will enjoy acres of space at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary. We are grateful to Qatar Airways Cargo and their WeQare program for once again supporting us by covering the air transport costs back to Africa. We also appreciate the support of ADI supporters who are helping to fund their care.”
Furthermore, Alzahra Aljanabi from Kuwait’s Public Authority of Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources highlighted the necessity of raising awareness about wildlife trafficking. “We extend our gratitude to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary for their support and efforts in providing a better habitat for the six lions from Kuwait. We also thank Qatar Airways Cargo for generously offering air transport. People often underestimate the dangers of keeping wild animals as pets. While they are magnificent creatures, they are also predators. Increased awareness is crucial in combating wildlife trafficking.”
Qatar Airways Cargo has consistently championed animal welfare. Their state-of-the-art Animal Center and the relaunch of the Live product demonstrate their commitment to setting high standards in the transport of live animals. In 2023 alone, the airline transported over 550,000 animals.
By working together, Qatar Airways Cargo and ADI are making significant strides in ensuring a safer, more natural habitat for these animals. The rehoming of the “Kuwait 6” lions is a testament to the power of collaboration in the fight against the wildlife trade.