Uganda reintroduce rhinos to Kidepo National Park after 4 decades

More than four decades after rhinos vanished from Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda has initiated their reintroduction through a landmark conservation effort aligned with the country's long-term strategy to rebuild endangered wildlife populations.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority, or UWA, said it translocated the first two southern white rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Kidepo Valley National Park on Tuesday, marking the start of a phased program that will see eight animals gradually relocated to the northeastern reserve.

Rhinos once roamed widely across the Kidepo landscape, but were wiped out in the late 1970s and early 1980s amid escalating poaching and insecurity. The last known rhino in the park was killed in 1983 according to the authorities.

The officials described the exercise as a significant step toward restoring wildlife species within their historic ranges while strengthening conservation outcomes in one of East Africa's most intact savannah ecosystems.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, UWA executive director James Musinguzi said the reintroduction reflects growing momentum in Uganda's efforts to rebuild wildlife populations and enhance ecosystem resilience.

"This moment marks the beginning of a new rhino story for Kidepo," he said, noting that authorities aim to establish a viable and self-sustaining population in the park over time.

He said the translocation follows years of feasibility studies assessing habitat suitability, ecological conditions, and security requirements necessary for the successful return of the species. Kidepo Valley was identified as a priority site because of its expansive landscapes, relatively low human pressure and strengthened conservation management.

Preparations for the exercise have included the development of a secure sanctuary equipped with perimeter fencing, access roads, ranger outposts, water infrastructure, and monitoring systems designed to support effective protection and adaptation of the animals to their new environment.

Upon arrival, Musinguzi said the rhinos will first remain under close observation by trained rangers and veterinary teams before being gradually released into wider sections of the park.

John Makombo, UWA commissioner for biodiversity management, said restoring rhinos will help strengthen ecological balance while supporting national and regional biodiversity conservation goals.

He noted that Uganda's rhino recovery program began in 2005 with the establishment of a breeding initiative at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary after the species became extinct in the wild nationally.

According to the authority, continued population growth at the sanctuary, together with the importation of additional animals from South Africa, has enabled the expansion of restoration efforts to other suitable habitats.

Officials said the return of rhinos to Kidepo is expected to boost tourism potential, strengthen ecosystem integrity, and contribute to broader efforts to protect endangered wildlife species across the country.

sharon@chinadailyafrica.com