Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has launched the reintroduction of rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park, marking the species’ return to the area 43 years after it was last recorded there.
The translocation exercise began with the movement of two Southern White Rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, with plans to relocate a total of eight animals to the park.
UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi described the development as a significant step in Uganda’s conservation journey, noting that it signals the beginning of efforts to restore a species that once formed part of Kidepo’s natural ecosystem.
According to UWA, the reintroduction aligns with the National Rhino Conservation Strategy, which aims to restore rhino populations within their historical habitats and strengthen long-term conservation efforts across the country.
The initiative follows a feasibility study conducted by UWA that assessed habitat suitability, ecological conditions, and security readiness for rhino reintroduction. The study identified Kidepo Valley National Park as one of the most viable locations for restoring the species in the wild.
Preparations for the exercise have included the establishment of a secure sanctuary within the park, complete with perimeter fencing, access roads, ranger facilities, water infrastructure, and monitoring systems to ensure the safety and adaptation of the animals.
UWA also acknowledged the role of conservation partners, including Wild Landscapes East Africa, Northern Rangelands Trust, and Uganda Conservation Foundation, in supporting infrastructure development, logistics, and technical planning for the translocation.
John Makombo, Commissioner for Biodiversity Management, said the reintroduction is critical for restoring ecological balance in one of Uganda’s most intact savannah ecosystems. He noted that the return of rhinos strengthens both species recovery and the resilience of the park’s ecosystem.
Once relocated, the rhinos will initially be kept within a protected sanctuary inside the park, where they will be closely monitored by rangers and veterinary teams to support their adaptation to the new environment.
Rhinos historically roamed the Kidepo Valley ecosystem but were wiped out due to widespread poaching and insecurity in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The last recorded rhino in the park was killed in 1983 in Narus Valley.
Uganda’s rhino conservation efforts were revived in 2005 with the establishment of a breeding programme at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary after the species became extinct in the wild nationally. Continued progress, including the recent importation of additional rhinos from South Africa, has enabled expansion into other suitable habitats. Uganda’s rhino population currently stands at 61.
The reintroduction is expected to enhance biodiversity conservation, boost tourism potential in Kidepo, and contribute to broader national efforts to restore endangered wildlife within their natural ecosystems.
