Qatar Airways Cargo has once again demonstrated its dedication to animal welfare by transporting six young lions rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. These lions, known as the “Kuwait 6,” were safely delivered to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The six lions, Muheeb, Saham, Shujaa, Saif (males), and Dhubiya and Aziza (females), were either seized or captured after being abandoned. They were initially cared for at the Kuwait Zoo before Animal Defenders International (ADI) stepped in to offer them a permanent home at their expansive 455-acre sanctuary.
“We are proud to once again support ADI in reuniting these magnificent creatures with their African home,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo. “Our WeQare Rewild the Planet initiative underscores our commitment to returning wildlife and endangered species back to their natural habitats, free of charge.”
Transporting large animals like lions requires meticulous planning and logistics. Qatar Airways Cargo’s team ensures the animals’ well-being throughout the journey, from specialized cages to proper handling during loading and unloading.
Jan Creamer, President of Animals Defenders International, expressed his gratitude: “The Kuwait 6 lions have a bright future at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, with ample space to roam freely. We are incredibly thankful to Qatar Airways Cargo’s WeQare program for covering the air transport costs and to our dedicated supporters who contribute to the lions’ care.”
Alzahra Aljanabi, Senior Translator for the Animal Welfare Department at Kuwait’s Public Authority of Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources, emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership: “We appreciate the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary for providing a better life for these lions. Wild animals are not pets; they are majestic predators. Raising awareness is crucial in combating wildlife trafficking.”
Qatar Airways Cargo’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond this heartwarming rescue mission. The airline recently unveiled its state-of-the-art Animal Centre and revamped its Live animal transport product, setting new standards in the industry. As a leading transporter of live animals, with over 550,000 animals flown in 2023, Qatar Airways Cargo champions animal welfare globally through its responsible and ethical operations.
The airline’s WeQare sustainability program focuses on four key pillars: environment, society, economy, and culture. Chapter 2 of this program, Rewild the Planet, directly addresses ecological balance by offering free air transport to organizations working to reintroduce rescued wildlife to their natural habitats.