Uganda Wildlife Authority has debunked a fake statement circulating online claiming Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola has been closed.
In an official statement issued Thursday, UWA clarified that the circulating document, which has gained traction on social media and other online platforms, is not authentic and did not originate from the authority.
“The management of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has noted with concern a fake press release circulating on social media and other platforms claiming that Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has been closed to the public,” the statement read. “We would like to categorically state that this release is false, misleading, and did not originate from UWA.”
UWA called on the public, media houses, tour operators, and other stakeholders to disregard the false document and seek information only through its official channels.
“The rhino population is safe, well-protected, and continues to play a critical role in Uganda’s conservation and tourism agenda,” said UWA spokesperson Bashir Hangi, who further reiterated the authority’s commitment to transparency.
Hangi urged all stakeholders to verify information regarding Uganda’s protected areas through official UWA communication platforms to avoid the spread of misinformation.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located in Nakasongola District about 176 kilometers north of Kampala along the Kampala-Gulu highway, remains fully operational.
Established in 2005 through a partnership between UWA and Rhino Fund Uganda, the sanctuary was created as a secure environment for the reintroduction of rhinos, which had been wiped out in Uganda due to poaching and civil unrest.
Spanning over 70 square kilometers, Ziwa is the only place in Uganda where tourists can view southern white rhinos in the wild. The sanctuary currently protects over 30 rhinos within a fenced and heavily patrolled area.
Visitors can enjoy guided walking safaris for rhino tracking, birdwatching, nature walks, and sightings of other wildlife including antelopes and reptiles.
Ziwa continues to play a critical role in Uganda’s national rhino conservation efforts and remains a key eco-tourism destination attracting both local and international tourists.
