It is now 30 years since George Adamson, ‘Baba ya Simba’ died after an attack by bandits when he went to the rescue of his assistant and a young European tourist at the Kora National Park. He was 83 years old. Adamson pioneered the rehabilitation of wild animals. He specifically devoted himself to raising lions that could not look after themselves and trained them to survive in the wild.
He is buried at Kora National Park alongside his brother terrace and two lion friends. Kora is at the border of Kitui and Tana River Counties.
In commemoration of his work, scores of conservationists gathered at Kora for three days. The chief guest at the event was Charles Musyoki, KWS Deputy Director General. He confirmed that the wildlife service has set aside funds to restore Kora to make sure it attracts tourists the world over.
Born Free the book and film are based on his and his wife’s Joy Adamson’s work.