NELSON MANDELA BAY, SOUTH AFRICA – The Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa is proud to announce the release of Nkanyiso, a once-captive cheetah, and her four cubs back into the wild at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve. This marks a significant milestone in the cheetahs’ rewilding journey and a broader effort to protect vulnerable species in Southern Africa.
Nkanyiso first arrived at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve in April 2023 as part of a collaborative rewilding programme with Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, The Metapopulation Initiative and Nyosi Wildlife Reserve. After spending her early years in captivity, she underwent a carefully monitored rewilding process—learning to hunt, roam freely and thrive without human assistance.
In April 2024, Nkanyiso’s progress took an unexpected turn when she sustained a serious leg injury, later confirmed to be a break in her front right leg. With the help of dedicated field guides and veterinary support, Nkanyiso was rescued and treated—and it was discovered she had recently given birth. The field guides sprang into action and against all odds, located her four cubs within the 2,500-hectare (6,200-acre) reserve, and safely recovered and reunited them with their mother during her recovery.
After a successful surgery and months of care, Nkanyiso has made a full recovery and was cleared for release by veterinary experts. Today marks a powerful new chapter as Nkanyiso returns to the wild — this time with her four cubs. Her cubs were also named recently, the two males are named Zuko (meaning success) and Khukhula (meaning storm) and the females are named Zola (meaning calm) and Amira (meaning princess).
“Nkanyiso’s story is one of hope, resilience and the incredible possibilities of rewilding,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane Society. “Her release, alongside her cubs, is a milestone for cheetah conservation and a victory for all who fight to protect endangered species. Global Humane Society remains committed to ensuring that wild animals everywhere are treated with the care and respect they deserve.”
Nkanyiso and her cubs will continue to be monitored through GPS tracking devices as they settle into their wild home—an important step toward in contributing to a sustainable and thriving cheetah population in the Eastern Cape.
“This release is a powerful testament to the resilience of wildlife and the importance of rewilding and long-term conservation work,” said Taryn Gillson, Global Humane Society’s Regional Director for Africa. “Nkanyiso’s story—from captivity to thriving mother in the wild—represents exactly what conservation efforts strive to achieve.”
The rewilding project is made possible through the combined efforts of the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, a program of Global Humane Society, and Nyosi Wildlife Reserve. Mantis, a conservation-focused hospitality group and a brand within the Accor family, has provided essential financial support through the donation of ALL – Accor Live Limitless Reward points, specifically allocated for the Cheetah Rewilding Project. Additionally, The Metapopulation Initiative serves as a valuable advisor to the project, offering expert guidance on best practices for cheetah conservation.
