Punda Male

Captured by Steven Ngowi, this striking image tells a story of power, resilience, and the unyielding rhythm of the Serengeti. The male lion, known as Punda, is one of the dominant males that recently seized the territory once ruled by the legendary Bob Jr. In the frame, the young cubs of the pride roam freely, seemingly unfazed by the upheaval, a testament to nature’s relentless cycle of change and continuity. Every whisker, every golden mane, every gaze in this photo captures a moment of both vulnerability and strength—where life goes on, indifferent to the battles of yesterday.

Discover more about the remarkable legacy of Bob Jr., the Serengeti’s true king, and the impact he left on his pride and the ecosystem: Remembering Bob Jr..

Born on the southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Steven Siayako Ngowi grew up surrounded by the untamed beauty of the African bush. From the age of six, he was raised by his grandfather, the legendary safari guide Steven Sr., who introduced him to the rhythm of the wild and the spirit of conservation. Together, they spent countless days alongside world-class photographers, helping them capture the soul of East Africa through the lens — from the thunder of migrating wildebeest to the quiet grace of a lion at dusk.

In Steven’s native Chagga language, Ndifo means “footsteps.” It’s a word that holds deep meaning for him — a reminder of the path his grandfather walked before him. Today, Steven follows those ndifo, honoring his heritage by sharing limited-edition prints of East Africa’s magnificent wildlife.

Each photograph is more than an image; it’s a story of legacy, love for the land, and a vision for the future. Through his art, Steven hopes to give back — raising funds to support fellow Tanzanians living in extreme poverty, helping them find stability and opportunity in the place they all call home.

The name Siayako — his grandfather’s mother’s name — connects Steven to generations past. While Steven Ngowi may be a common name, Siayako is uniquely his — a symbol of his lineage, his purpose, and the enduring footsteps he continues to follow.