Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has commenced the historic reintroduction of rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park, marking the return of the species to the area 43 years after they were wiped out.
The exercise, flagged off by UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi on Tuesday, witnessed the translocation of the first two Southern White Rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, with a total of eight rhinos expected to be relocated in phases.
Describing the exercise as a turning point, Dr Musinguzi said the move signals a new chapter for wildlife restoration in Uganda. “This moment marks the beginning of a new rhino story for Kidepo Valley National Park… the first step in restoring a species that once formed part of the park’s natural heritage,” he said.
He noted that the initiative is aligned with Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation Strategy, which seeks to restore rhino populations within their historic range.
Commissioner for Biodiversity Management John Makombo emphasized that the return of rhinos is critical to restoring the ecological balance of Kidepo. “Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Uganda’s most intact savannah ecosystems, and the reintroduction of Southern White Rhinos restores a key component of that ecosystem,” he said.
He added that the move strengthens ecosystem resilience and long-term biodiversity conservation.
Heavy investment in preparation
UWA revealed that extensive groundwork has been undertaken to prepare the park, including the establishment of a secure rhino sanctuary, perimeter fencing, ranger facilities, access roads, firebreaks, and water infrastructure.
Upon arrival, the rhinos will be placed in a protected sanctuary and closely monitored by trained rangers and veterinary teams to ensure successful adaptation.
The reintroduction has been supported by partners including Wild Landscapes East Africa, Northern Rangelands Trust, and Uganda Conservation Foundation, who contributed technical, financial and logistical support.
Rhinos once roamed widely across Kidepo, but were wiped out in the late 1970s and early 1980s due to poaching and insecurity. The last rhino in the park was killed in 1983.
Uganda’s rhino recovery efforts began in 2005 with the establishment of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which has since become the cornerstone of breeding and conservation.
Currently, Uganda has 61 rhinos, with recent imports from South Africa boosting efforts to expand populations into protected areas like Kidepo.
UWA says the return of rhinos is expected to enhance tourism, strengthen biodiversity conservation, and contribute to restoring endangered species within their historical ecosystems.
Dr Musinguzi also commended conservation partners for their role in making the milestone possible. “The return of rhinos to Kidepo demonstrates the power of partnerships in restoring species and protecting Uganda’s wildlife heritage,” he said.
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