Kenyans outraged as video shows sickly lion caged at Nairobi's Stedmak Gardens

A disturbing video showing a weak and emaciated lion at Stedmak Gardens in Nairobi’s Karen area has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed debate over the treatment of captive wildlife in Kenya.

The viral clip, filmed by shocked visitors, shows the lion moving sluggishly within its enclosure, its ribs and hip bones sharply visible through its thin skin. Many described the scene as “heartbreaking” and accused the facility of neglect, saying the animal appeared to be suffering.

A popular leisure and garden destination in Karen is under scrutiny after video footage showed a lion appearing malnourished and injured, with staff at the facility seemingly indifferent to the welfare of the animals and refusing to provide any explanation regarding their… pic.twitter.com/hU8L64UIjs

— Nyakundi Report (@NyakundiReport) November 7, 2025

In response to the uproar, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued an official statement addressing concerns over the lion, named Lamu. The 22-year-old big cat, KWS revealed, was rescued from an orphanage in 2012 and has since been under the care of Stedmak Gardens.

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Lamu, a 22-year-old lion at Stedmak Gardens, has lived far beyond the typical lifespan of lions in the wild — usually 12 to 16 years. Rescued and transferred from an orphanage… pic.twitter.com/tSEyIJIHrQ

— Kenya Wildlife Service (@KWSKenya) November 7, 2025

According to the agency, Lamu’s condition stems from old age and a chronic illness rather than neglect.

They also pointed out that he had exceeded the typical lifespan of wild lions, which ranges from 12 to 16 years, thanks to dedicated veterinary care. 

The KWS veterinary team, led by Dr. Benard Rono, confirmed that the lion is receiving ongoing treatment for progressive spinal nerve degeneration, a condition diagnosed in 2020.

“The team examined him this afternoon and confirmed that he continues to receive treatment for progressive spinal nerve degeneration, a condition he has managed since 2020,” the statement read in part. 

Despite this assurance, many Kenyans remain unconvinced. 

Concerned citizens have continued to express unease, questioning why the animal’s condition was allowed to deteriorate so visibly before the public became aware. 

Others argue that keeping a lion in a small, confined space for display may be unethical, particularly when the animal is clearly in distress.