Uganda has received eight rhinos from Munyawana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, a generous donation to the Government of Uganda from African Parks.
The rhinos arrived at Entebbe International Airport, where they were officially received by Dr. Basil Ajer, the Director of Tourism Development, on behalf of the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities. Of the eight rhinos, four are males and four are females, a balanced composition aimed at strengthening breeding efforts and ensuring long-term population growth.
The reception ceremony was attended by John Makombo, the Commissioner of Biodiversity Management, who represented the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), along with senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Uganda Tourism Board, and UWA’s senior management team.
Dr. Ajer highlighted that the arrival of these rhinos underscores Uganda’s growing reputation in global wildlife conservation and tourism development.
“This donation is a strong vote of confidence in Uganda’s conservation systems and institutions. It reflects the trust our international partners have in our ability to protect these endangered species and responsibly grow our wildlife-based tourism,” Dr. Ajer said.
He emphasized that the translocation is fully aligned with Uganda’s national planning frameworks.
“This initiative is in line with Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy, which aims to strengthen genetic diversity, expand the rhino range, and secure the species for future generations,” he added.
John Makombo described the arrival of the rhinos as a significant reinforcement of Uganda’s conservation efforts.
“This is a major boost to our national rhino recovery program. Beyond conservation, this donation enhances Uganda’s profile as a competitive nature-based tourism destination and solidifies our position as a trusted partner in international wildlife conservation,” he said.
Makombo also assured that UWA would protect the rhinos and provide an optimal environment for them to thrive and multiply.
Speaking on behalf of African Parks during the handover, Operations and Logistics Manager Martine Rickelton noted that the donation reflects African Parks’ long-term commitment to supporting rhino range states.
“Uganda has shown strong leadership in rhino conservation and long-term planning for the species’ recovery. This donation is our contribution to strengthening that foundation and supporting Uganda’s ambition to re-establish rhinos across more protected areas. We are proud to partner with the Government of Uganda and Uganda Wildlife Authority on this vital conservation journey,” he said.
Following their arrival, the rhinos are being transferred to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for mandatory quarantine, veterinary monitoring, and acclimatization before being integrated with the other rhinos in the sanctuary.
With this latest addition, Uganda’s total rhino population now stands at 59, all under active protection, marking a significant milestone in the country’s rhino recovery efforts.
Uganda’s rhino restoration program continues to advance under the National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy. Currently, preparations are underway to introduce additional rhinos into Kidepo Valley National Park to expand the species’ range. Meanwhile, plans are being finalized to translocate selected rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai Wildlife Reserve as part of a phased national initiative to re-establish rhinos in protected areas where they once thrived.
