KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially commenced the historic reintroduction of rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park, marking the species’ return to the park 43 years after it was last sighted.
Earlier today, UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi flagged off the translocation of the first two Southern White Rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Kidepo. In total, eight rhinos are set to be relocated in this initial phase.
Describing the exercise as a major milestone in Uganda’s conservation journey, Dr. Musinguzi said the move marks the beginning of restoring a species that once formed a vital part of Kidepo’s natural heritage. He noted that additional rhinos will be introduced over time to establish a sustainable and thriving population.
The reintroduction aligns with Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation Strategy, which aims to restore rhinos within their historical range and strengthen long-term conservation efforts. It is also guided by a comprehensive feasibility study conducted by UWA, which identified Kidepo as one of the most suitable habitats for rhino restoration based on ecological conditions, habitat suitability, and security readiness.
Extensive preparations have been undertaken to support the return of the species. These include the establishment of a secure sanctuary within the park, complete with perimeter fencing, access roads, firebreaks, ranger outposts, water infrastructure, and advanced monitoring systems to ensure the safety and proper management of the animals.
Dr. Musinguzi expressed gratitude to conservation partners whose technical, financial, and logistical support made the exercise possible, highlighting the importance of collaboration in wildlife restoration.
The Commissioner for Biodiversity Management, John Makombo, emphasized the ecological importance of the initiative, noting that the return of rhinos restores a critical component of Kidepo’s ecosystem and enhances its resilience.
The reintroduction is being supported by Wild Landscapes East Africa, Northern Rangelands Trust, and Uganda Conservation Foundation, who have contributed to sanctuary development, infrastructure, equipment, and logistics.
Upon arrival, the rhinos will initially be housed in a secure sanctuary within Kidepo, where they will be closely monitored by trained rangers and veterinary teams to ensure successful adaptation.
Rhinos once roamed freely across the Kidepo Valley ecosystem but were wiped out due to intense poaching and insecurity in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The last rhino in the park was killed in Narus Valley in 1983.
Uganda’s rhino recovery efforts began in 2005 with the establishment of a breeding program at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary after the species became extinct in the wild. Continued success at Ziwa, along with the recent importation of additional rhinos from South Africa, has enabled expansion into new habitats. Uganda’s rhino population currently stands at 61.
