THE RETURN OF THE RHINO - A NEW ERA FOR KIDEPO

For decades, Kidepo Valley National Park has stood as one of Uganda’s most spectacular landscapes - but one of its most iconic inhabitants is missing. Rhinos used to roam this rugged wilderness, shaping the ecosystem alongside elephants, lions, and buffalo, as well as myriad other species. But poaching, conflict, and habitat loss drove them to extinction within Uganda’s borders. Now, a bold conservation effort is set to rewrite that story.

The Kidepo Rhino Project is a pioneering initiative to restore both eastern black rhinos and southern white rhinos to the park, helping to secure their future while revitalizing an ecosystem that once relied on their presence. At the core of this effort is a 17,050-acre fenced sanctuary in the Narus Valley, where rhinos will be reintroduced in carefully managed phases.

In the first stage, 20 white rhinos will establish a breeding population, creating the foundation for long-term recovery. This will be followed by the introduction of 20 eastern black rhinos, to help repopulate their former range. Advanced tracking technology, anti-poaching patrols, and disease prevention measures will ensure their security, while extensive community engagement programs will foster local support and sustainable conservation benefits.

This ambitious effort is being led by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), in partnership with conservation organizations, wildlife specialists, and local communities. WildLandscapes is playing a key role in mobilizing resources, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring the long-term viability of the project.

The return of rhinos to Kidepo will restore balance to an entire landscape, as well as bringing back a truly iconic species. As natural ecosystem engineers, rhinos shape vegetation, create habitats for other wildlife, and play a crucial role in the health of the savanna. Their presence will also boost conservation-driven tourism, creating new economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

With a five-year plan in place and a dedicated team behind it, the Kidepo Rhino Reintroduction Project represents a rare chance to correct the course of history. A future where rhinos roam free in Uganda once again is within reach.