After Decades of Absence, a Giant Returns to the Wild

Uganda reintroduced rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park in 2026, marking the first reintroduction in over 40 years and restoring a species once lost to poaching and conflict.

“This moment marks the beginning of a new rhino story for Kidepo Valley National Park,” said James Musinguzi, executive director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Rhinos had disappeared from Uganda’s wild by 1983, but conservation efforts since 2005 have rebuilt a protected population of 54 animals at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. The current reintroduction begins with eight southern white rhinos, including individuals sourced internationally, following detailed studies confirming Kidepo as a suitable habitat. A secured sanctuary with monitoring systems has been established to support their adaptation, marking a major step in restoring biodiversity and re-establishing a species that once roamed widely across the country.