Uganda Reintroducing White Rhinos in West Nile Reserve to Preserve Biodiversity and Boost Tourism

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) began the process of reintroducing white rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve, located in the West Nile region in the north-west of the country, the local media revealed on Monday.

This follows the successful two-day relocation of 200 kobs and 50 buffaloes to the reserve, which the UWA finished last Friday. The purpose of the exercise is to clear the area of overgrown vegetation and facilitate the repopulation of the wildlife reserve prior to the introduction of Southern White Rhinoceros, the media reported.

“By reintroducing common species such as kobs and buffaloes, UWA aims to enhance the reserve’s capacity to manage diverse wildlife populations effectively. Rhinoceros are grazers; they eat the grass, but the kobs and buffaloes we have taken there eat everything, including tree branches,” Bashir Hangi, the UWA spokesman said, as cited by the media.

Moreover, the reintroduction of kobs and buffaloes enhances the diversity of the reserve's itinerary for tourists.

“We don’t want to keep the rhinos there alone; we want a variety of animals if we are to improve the tourism of the area. We cannot look at rhinoceros alone,” Hangi reportedly added.

Furthermore, the local media also found out that transferring rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve will alleviate the already overburdened Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which is located in central Uganda. The sanctuary currently exceeds its maximum capacity of 40 rhinos, so excess animals have to be relocated to other areas.

“We want to keep Ziwa as a breeding space. So, we shall not take away all the rhinos; we shall leave behind some so that they can continue breeding. Once the young ones are grown, we distribute them to other bigger spaces,” Hangi was quoted as saying.

Sub-Saharan Africa

Kenya Launches Relocation of 21 Endangered Black Rhinos to New Conservancy for Breeding

17 January, 16:00

But why Ajai Wildlife Reserve? Five years ago, the UWA conducted a feasibility study to determine whether rhinos could survive in the reserve. The study identified it, along with another national part, as the most suitable alternative preserve to house the animals.

Aside from that, the squaring of the reserve will also boost tourism in the West Nile, the region with the fewest attractions, Hangi reportedly said.

Furthermore, Sam Mwandha, the UWA executive director, highlighted the importance of the translocation exercise in promoting sustainable tourism and community involvement, adding that the translocation initiative demonstrates the UWA's dedication to preserving biodiversity and restoring ecosystem.

“The translocation of wildlife to Ajai Wildlife Reserve is a testament to our dedication to responsible tourism and inclusive conservation practices. This initiative will not only elevate the tourism potential of the reserve but also ensure equitable benefits for local communities through revenue-sharing mechanisms,” he reportedly said.

Uganda's neighbor, Kenya, has also put effort into safeguarding rhinos. In mid-January, the Kenya Wildlife Service began the relocation of 21 black rhinos to the Loisaba Conservancy, which will give the animals more space to breed.

Moreover, the East African country is also working to increase the population of another rhino species, the southern white rhino, and continues fighting poaching.