Air France Repatriates Trafficked Lions Yoda and Ysis to Their New Home in South Africa

Air France-KLM is proud to announce the successful repatriation of two lion cubs, Yoda and Ysis, to South Africa. Victims of animal rights abuses in Europe and once exploited for use in music videos, the two lions were rescued in 2020 by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation (30 Million Friends Foundation) and cared for by the Tonga Terre d’Accueil association at the Saint-Martin-la-Plaine Zoological Park.

The journey home for Yoda and Ysis began with a flight from Lyon to Paris, followed by Air France flight AF 990 from Paris to Johannesburg. Fully funded by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation, the lions arrived in South Africa on 4 March 2025 and are settling in to their new home.

After spending the past five years in care, Yoda and Ysis begin a new chapter at the SanWild Sanctuary Wildlife Trust. Located in Limpopo, just a few kilometres south of Leydsdorp and near the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, SanWild is a 5,000-hectare wildlife rehabilitation center and reserve. Under the care of the SanWild team and as part of The Roar Project led by Alexandre Blanchon, the lions will initially live in semi-freedom, allowing them to gradually re-adapt to their natural environment.

Genetic tests have since confirmed that they are siblings, a bond that has been evident since they were rescued.

Wilson Tauro, Country Manager Southern Africa at Air France-KLM, expressed his pride in the airline’s commitment to animal welfare. "Air France is dedicated to ensuring that distressed wildlife is given the opportunity to return home. Repatriating Yoda and Ysis is a proud moment for us and reinforces South Africa’s reputation as a premier destination for wildlife rehabilitation,” he says. “We are committed to transporting live animals safely and efficiently, and we believe that our efforts will help these lions begin a new life at SanWild Sanctuary."

Air France-KLM’s commitment to ethical and responsible transport is evident in its support for wildlife conservation and animal welfare initiatives. The successful repatriation of Yoda and Ysis not only marks a significant milestone in their journey but also shines a light on the collaborative efforts of organisations like the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation, Tonga Terre d’Accueil, The Roar Project and Air France-KLM in combating wildlife trafficking.