Uganda has received eight rhinos from Munyawana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, a donation made to the Government of Uganda by African Parks. The animals arrived at Entebbe International Airport at 2:30 a.m. and were officially welcomed by the Director of Tourism Development, Dr. Basil Ajer, who represented the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
The consignment comprises four male and four female rhinos, a balanced group selected to support breeding and ensure sustainable population growth.
The handover ceremony was witnessed by the Commissioner for Biodiversity Management, John Makombo, representing 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 management.
Dr. Basil Ajer said the arrival of the rhinos underscores Uganda’s rising 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,” he said.
He further noted that the translocation fits within national conservation priorities.
“This initiative is fully aligned with Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy, which seeks to strengthen genetic diversity, expand rhino range, and secure the species for future generations,” Dr. Ajer added.
Mr. John Makombo described the donation as a significant addition to Uganda’s conservation gains.
“This is a significant boost to our national rhino recovery programme. Beyond conservation, this donation strengthens Uganda’s profile as a competitive nature-based tourism destination and a trusted partner in international wildlife conservation,” he said.
He emphasized UWA’s commitment to protecting and supporting the new arrivals: UWA will ensure the rhinos are safeguarded and provided an enabling environment for breeding.
Speaking on behalf of African Parks, Operations and Logistics Manager Martine Rickelton said the gesture reflects their long-term dedication to countries working to rebuild rhino populations.
“Uganda has demonstrated 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 important conservation journey,” he said.
Following their arrival, the rhinos are being transported to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for mandatory quarantine, veterinary checks, and acclimatisation before full integration with the sanctuary’s existing population.
The addition of the eight rhinos brings Uganda’s total rhino population to 59, all under active protection, a major milestone in the country’s ongoing rhino restoration programme.
Uganda continues to advance its rhino conservation agenda under the National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy. Preparations are underway to introduce more rhinos into Kidepo Valley National Park to widen the species’ range. Additionally, plans are in the final stages to relocate select rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai Wildlife Reserve as part of a phased national effort to restore rhinos to areas where they once thrived.