Why It Matters
By the early 1980s, rhinos vanished from Uganda’s wild due to poaching and unrest. Now, they’re making a comeback. Over 48 Southern White Rhinos thrive at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and 17 juveniles born between 2021 and 2024 are ready to be named.
What the Campaign aims to do;
- Raise critical funds for rhino conservation.
- Expand protected habitats and support ranger welfare.
- Elevate public ownership of Uganda’s wildlife legacy
- Engage individuals, institutions, and brands globally in naming rhinos
#1: The First Light
The very first calf of the year 2023 came into the world just as the sun broke through the morning mist. His first steps mirrored a rising dawn—steady, full of promise. He’s curious, confident, and always moving toward the light. His name will speak of beginnings and bright futures.
#2: Born in the Storm
One evening, as thunder cracked over Ziwa and heavy rains soaked the savannah, a miracle unfolded: a baby rhino was born beneath lightning-lit skies. Her mother shielded her as rangers watched in awe. She is strong, grounded, and calm. Her story reminds us that even through life’s storms, hope can be born quietly, & powerfully.
#3: The Quiet Fighter
Some calves cry at birth. This one didn’t. Fragile and motionless at first, rangers feared the worst—but within minutes, she stirred, then stood. Her calm nature hides a fighting spirit. She’s thriving now, walking close to her mother with gentle defiance. She is proof that strength doesn’t have to shout.
#4: Born Free
This male calf’s birth coincided with the opening of a new block of habitat at Ziwa. He was the first to set foot on land previously untouched by rhinos. Unfenced, unfazed, and unafraid—his wildness is pure. He embodies the freedom that conservation dreams of.
#5: Hope of the Herd
She is the daughter of a second-generation rhino—proof that conservation is not just preserving the past, but building the future. Her name will represent endurance, lineage, and the collective efforts of Ugandans who never gave up on their wildlife.
#6: Guardian’s Gift
Named by rangers as “the miracle calf,” he was born under the close care of UWA’s team. His birth marked the 50th rhino milestone—an emotional moment for the sanctuary. He is gentle yet proud, a living tribute to those who patrol and protect these lands every day.
#7: Legacy Walker
She is the last-born daughter of one of Uganda’s most iconic rhino mothers—Nandi. With every step, she echoes the wisdom, resilience, and protection of her lineage. Her future will honor the legacy of the giants that came before her.
#8: The Bold One
He runs, leaps, and charges imaginary threats. While other calves stay close to their mothers, he wanders further—always the explorer, always testing boundaries. Bold, mischievous, and fearless, he represents the untamed spirit of Uganda’s wilderness.
#9: Midnight Star
Born at midnight under a sky scattered with stars, she emerged silently and gracefully. Calm and regal, she glows under moonlight and follows her mother with an elegant gait. Her presence is poetic—she reminds us that nature often saves her best work for the dark.
#10: Ubuntu
This calf was born during a community-led sanctuary celebration. The singing had barely faded when she arrived, as though summoned by togetherness. She thrives in the presence of others and seems to respond to human voices. Her story is unity, and her name will embody Ubuntu—“I am because we are.”
#11: Riverborn
This little rhino was born right beside the Nakitoma stream. From her first breath, she loved water—bathing, splashing, even sitting still as birds danced around her. She represents the bond between earth and water, between life and environment.
#12: The Watcher
Alert and thoughtful, this calf observes everything. He notices birds before the adults do. He rarely plays, but he never misses anything. He was born during World Ranger Week—a fitting tribute to the silent sentinels who protect Uganda’s wildlife. He is watchful, wise beyond his age.
#13: Lone Runner
He gave the rangers quite a scare. Separated from his mother hours after birth, he wandered for nearly a day before being reunited safely. Now, he never strays too far—but his story is one of survival, courage, and the powerful instinct to return home.
#14: Earth’s Gift
Born on World Earth Day in 2024, this calf entered the world as schoolchildren visited the sanctuary. Her birth felt symbolic—nature answering back. She is bright-eyed, social, and often drawn to the fences as if sensing people. She is Earth’s quiet gift to us all.
#15: The Healer
Her mother lost two calves before her. Her birth was tense, uncertain—but when she arrived safely, the rangers wept. She is gentle, playful, and warm-hearted. Her story is one of healing, resilience, and restoration. A symbol of nature’s mercy.
#16: Echo
She is loud. She snorts, bellows, and communicates in ways that surprise even seasoned trackers. She echoes not just through the sanctuary—but through the campaign as a call to protect and listen to wildlife. Her name will carry a message.
#17: The 56th
He is the 56th rhino born or brought into Uganda’s wild since reintroduction began in 2005. He marks a milestone in conservation. He is not just a number—he is history. His name will reflect national pride, success, and the vision to go even further.
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The Grand Rhino Naming Ceremony | September 22, 2025
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), under the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, proudly invites you to join the "Name a Rhino” Campaign—a public-facing initiative to engage citizens, corporate entities, and global stakeholders in the shared mission of protecting Uganda’s rhinos. You can also sign-up for the official naming Ceremony.
When: September 22, 2025
Where: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Nakasongola District.
Chief Guest: H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda
For custom packages: rhino@wildlife.go.ug
How to Contribute
Bank Transfers (UGX / USD):
Stanbic Bank
UWA Collection Account.
Acc No: 9030006237338
Currency: UGX.
Centenary Bank
Acc Name: UWA Collections.
Acc. No: 3110400021
Currency: UGX.
ABSA Bank
Acc Name: UWA.
UGX, Acc No: 6006760021
USD, Acc No: 344020914
CitiBank Uganda
Acc Name: UWA
USD, Acc No: 100160064
Mobile Money (Merchant Codes):
MTN: 611906
Airtel: 1207670