The Parliament of Uganda has contributed Shs 35.1 million towards rhino conservation efforts and named one of the rhinos “Kira” during a plenary session held this week.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among made the announcement, pledging the funds on behalf of Parliament as part of the upcoming Rhino Naming Ceremony at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District.
“As Parliament, we have named one rhino ‘Kira’, the source of the Nile. That is your rhino,” Speaker Among said during the session.
Scheduled for later this September, the Rhino Naming Ceremony will be presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and marks a key milestone in the national “Name A Rhino” campaign, an ambitious five-year, $11 million (Shs 40 billion) fundraising drive aimed at expanding and securing Uganda’s rhino population.
The event offers individuals, companies, and philanthropists a unique opportunity to symbolically adopt and name one of 17 rhino calves and juveniles, with all proceeds supporting critical conservation programs.
Funds raised will support: Habitat expansion, Veterinary care, Anti-poaching operations and Community-based conservation initiatives.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) continues to call on the public, private sector, and international partners to participate in this landmark initiative.
Naming opportunities remain open, with all contributions channeled directly into rhino protection, education, and long-term sustainability.
