Online Reporter
KAMPALA. –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 (UWA), said it translocated the first two southern white rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Kidepo Valley National Park last week, 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. – ChinaDaily.com
