A pangolin peeping out from amongst the undergrowth

Lilongwe Wildlife Centre

Malawi

Born Free has a long and proud partnership with Lilongwe Wildlife Centre (LWC), Malawi’s only wildlife sanctuary and a vital lifeline for animals in need. Established by the Lilongwe Wildlife Trust (LWT), with support from Born Free, the Centre began in 2008 when a rundown former zoo was transformed into what remains the country’s only wildlife sanctuary.

Set within 180 hectares of beautiful woodland in the heart of Malawi’s capital, LWC provides expert care to around 200 resident animals and works tirelessly to return as many as possible to the wild. As the country’s first responder for wildlife in need, the Centre rescues and rehabilitates animals that are injured, orphaned, or caught in the illegal wildlife trade – providing urgent veterinary care and a safe haven for species ranging from pangolins and vervet monkeys to servals and hyenas.

In addition to founding a now accredited1 wildlife rescue Centre, LWT has grown into one of Malawi’s leading conservation organisations, with an international reputation for its high-impact wildlife protection projects, education programmes, efforts to tackle illegal wildlife trade.

More than a sanctuary, LWC is a centre for learning, advocacy and community engagement. It inspires visitors to connect with nature, partners with schools and local communities to promote coexistence, and works with authorities to combat wildlife crime. As a proud member of the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance (PASA) and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), LWC is at the forefront of wildlife care and conservation in southern Africa.

Among its most vital work is the centre’s pioneering efforts to protect pangolins – the world’s most trafficked mammal. Working alongside authorities, the team provides life-saving care and rehabilitation for pangolins rescued from the illegal trade, giving these elusive and endangered animals a chance to return to the wild. Their specialised work is helping to build global understanding of pangolin welfare and biology, while strengthening frontline efforts to secure a future for this remarkable species.

Visit Lilongwe Wildlife Centre’s Website

Adopt the Pangolin Family

Pangolins are among the most illegally trafficked mammals in the world. At Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, rescued pangolins - whether injured, orphaned, or seized from traffickers - receive expert care and a second chance at life in the wild.

By adopting the Pangolin Family, you’ll help Born Free support the rescue, rehabilitation, and post-release monitoring of these remarkable animals. Your adoption will also contribute to our vital work campaigning against the illegal wildlife trade and protecting the natural habitats pangolins need to survive.

Adopt A Pangolin Today