Panthera Africa is an ethical non-profit sanctuary that rescues and provides lifelong care for captive-bred big cats rescued from neglect and exploitation. The sanctuary provides a safe, natural environment where animals live with dignity while receiving daily enrichment, medical care, and behavioural support.

Through education programmes, community initiatives, and ethical tourism experiences, Panthera Africa raises awareness about the realities of the captive wildlife industry and promotes humane conservation practices. As a model for change, the organisation is committed to sustainability, with plans to become South Africa’s first solar-powered big cat sanctuary and to expand its reach through a dedicated Education Centre.

The Mission

Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and providing lifelong, ethical care for captive-bred big cats. In the aftermath of the devastating wildfire of 8 January 2026, the sanctuary’s immediate mission is to protect the lives, welfare, and dignity of all animals in their care, while ensuring the safety of their team and securing the sanctuary’s future through recovery and rebuilding. Despite immense loss — including the heartbreaking passing of their beloved tiger, Rays — the team remains committed
to continuing their work, safeguarding the remaining animals, and rebuilding a sanctuary where rescued big cats can once again live safely and with dignity.

What they need

Panthera Africa urgently needs financial support to cover:

  • Emergency response costs, including firefighting equipment and ongoing fire preparedness.
  • Veterinary care and rehabilitation, addressing smoke inhalation, stress-related conditions, and trauma recovery.
  • Relocation costs, enabling the safe transfer of big cats to partner sanctuaries across South Africa where necessary.
  • Daily animal care, including food, medication, monitoring, and care for both big cats and smaller animals.
  • Operational and running costs, ensuring the sanctuary can continue functioning during an uncertain recovery period.
  • Staff support, retaining their dedicated animal care team who are essential to animal welfare and recovery.
  • Recovery and rebuilding, including restoration of electrical fencing, camps, and critical infrastructure once full damage assessments are possible.

Target

OKOA Fund is raising support to aid the sanctuary’s recovery and rebuilding efforts, including the repair and restoration of electrical fencing, animal camps, and essential infrastructure, once a full assessment of the damage has been completed.