KWS takes away orphaned cheetah rescued, raised by Garissa woman

In a heartwarming yet complex tale from Kursi Village, Garissa County, a Kenyan woman has captured national attention for her extraordinary act of kindness.

For nearly two years, she rescued and raised an orphaned cheetah cub, treating it like a family pet by feeding, bathing, and even leashing it.

Her actions, motivated by compassion, highlight the delicate balance between human empathy and wildlife conservation laws.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) learned of this unique situation through its Community and Wildlife Service Division.

While acknowledging the woman's noble intentions, KWS emphasized that keeping wildlife, even out of love, violates the Wildlife Conservation and Tourism Act (WCMA).

This legislation aims to protect wild animals and ensure their well-being in natural habitats.

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In Kursi Village, Garissa County, a compassionate woman once rescued a stranded cheetah cub and lovingly raised it as her own for nearly two years - feeding, bathing, and even leashing it like... pic.twitter.com/7nc1Zd2p2a

- Kenya Wildlife Service (@KWSKenya) October 23, 2025

KWS officers safely took the cheetah into their care, marking the end of its time with the woman who had become its surrogate mother.

Following the rescue, the cheetah underwent a comprehensive health assessment by KWS veterinary experts.

The team conducted a full check-up, collected laboratory samples, and administered treatments for parasite control to ensure the animal's health.

The cheetah was then relocated to the Nairobi Safari Walk, where it now thrives under expert care as part of ongoing conservation and education efforts.

The story has sparked a mix of admiration and debate on social media. Many Kenyans have praised the woman's compassion, with some calling for her to be rewarded, such as with free access to the park or compensation for her two years of care.

Others have questioned the timing of KWS's intervention, wondering if the cheetah's well-being was truly at risk or if institutional priorities overshadowed individual goodwill.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano also weighed in, celebrating the woman's kindness while reminding the public of the dangers and illegality of keeping wild animals as pets.

"Even out of love, keeping a wild animal as a pet is against our laws. Wild instincts always return, and these magnificent creatures belong in their natural habitat. Your kindness is vital, but professional intervention is mandatory, we must protect our citizens and ensure the best chance of survival for our national heritage," she stated.