Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), with support from the Bureau of International Operations and Law Enforcement Affairs, donated equipment this morning to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This donation aims to strengthen the Authority’s capacity to enhance law enforcement and intelligence efforts to fight wildlife crime.
The equipment delivered includes one Lenovo all-in-one PC, Lenovo laptops and accessories, two Honda motorcycles, 16,809 educational and awareness materials, and several other items yet to be installed and delivered. The additional items include thirty-five smartphones and waist bags, solar units for ranger outposts, and fuel cards for the two motorcycles.
Delivering the consignment at UWA offices in Kamwokya, Kampala, the Country Director of WCS, Dr. Takozekibi Nampindo, stated that the project, which is part of the Countering Wildlife Crime in the Transfrontier Conservation Area of Uganda initiative, aims to reduce poaching and wildlife trafficking within the Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area. This will be achieved by enhancing UWA’s capacity to coordinate responses at both park and national levels, as well as improving the use of high-quality data sharing and analysis to combat wildlife crime.
UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi praised WCS for their practical support in conservation efforts and promised to ensure the donation is effectively used to combat the ongoing challenge of wildlife crime.
The project, which will run until September 2026, will also provide training on Earth Ranger integration with SMART and OWADAT systems (for patrol data collection), facilitate deployment, raise community awareness about the benefits of the park and the threats posed by poaching, and support conservation education and awareness training.
After years of yearning from the Madi-Okollo people to restore rhinos to their cultural heritage, the government has officially reintroduced rhinos at Ajai Wildlife Reserve during a joyful event attended by the 15 tribes of the Ajai kingdom, political leaders, religious figures, conservationists, and other stakeholders.
The Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom R Butime, who unveiled the rhinos following a tracking activity, stated that the reintroduction of rhinos at Ajai Wildlife Reserve represents the return of a species that was once lost in the country and the revival of an important part of the nation’s natural heritage. He emphasized that this event is more than just a conservation effort—it is a clear demonstration of the country’s national commitment, responsibility, and determination.
During President Museveni’s campaigns in 2021, the people of West Nile requested him to bring back their regional heritage (the rhino) to the region. The President indeed made a promise to have the rhinos back before 2021-2026 term of office ends and the promise has been met not only to celebrate the NRM achievement but to specifically celebrate President Museveni’s fulfilment of his promise to the people of West Nile and Madi Okollo in particular.
Therefore, this initiative aligns fully with Government policy on biodiversity conservation, sustainable tourism development, and inclusive regional growth. The restoration of Rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve strengthens conservation efforts in West Nile in particular and Northern Uganda at large, and lays a foundation for future tourism development in West Nile.
The government’s goal is to ensure that conservation of wildlife must sustain our national heritage, protect wildlife, and contribute to national development while also creating opportunities that contribute to local livelihoods and national development.
Uganda lost its rhinos during a period characterised by insecurity, widespread poaching, and weak institutional capacity. Their disappearance served as a painful reminder of how vulnerable our wildlife heritage can be. The event therefore demonstrated how far the country has come and reflects a deliberate decision by Government to invest in the tourism and conservation sector, strengthen institutions, and correct historical losses.
The Minister appreciated Uganda Wildlife Authority, the Board of Trustees, and the conservation partners for the professionalism and discipline demonstrated throughout this programme.
The phased approach adopted for the translocation reflects best practice and underscores Government’s commitment to animal welfare, security, and long-term sustainability and emphasized that the leaders and communities of West Nile hold a critical role in the success of this initiative. He added; “The Rhinos unveiled form part of your heritage and should inspire both pride and responsibility”.
He stressed that protection of these Rhinos remains a matter of national interest, and thus wildlife crime will not be tolerated. Government will continue to support Uganda Wildlife Authority and other security agencies to ensure that poaching and all forms of illegal activity are addressed firmly and decisively.
Minister Butime confirmed that government remains committed to strengthening partnerships, investing in protected area management, and supporting community-based conservation approaches and urged the district leaders to plan strategically and ensure that the return of the rhinos becomes a blessing to the local communities.
The chairperson board of trustees UWA, Prof. James Kalema noted that the Board’s decision to re-establish rhinos in Ajai Wildlife Reserve was guided by the National Rhino Conservation Strategy, detailed feasibility assessments, and professional advice from management and conservation experts and key considerations included ecological suitability, security readiness, financial implications, institutional capacity, and engagement with surrounding communities.
He commended the Minister for the political support accorded to UWA to get resources to implement thes plan and thanked H.E the President of Uganda Y.K Museveni for the forethought of including rhino reintroduction as a priority for Government in the NRM Manifesto.
He also thanked Capt. Joseph Roy, the owner of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, for his wonderful vision, generosity, and passion for rhinos and wildlife in general.
Dr. James Musinguzi the Executive Director of UWA said that the rhino re-introduction in Ajai Wildlife Reserve marked a historic milestone for Uganda’s wildlife conservation efforts, for the people of West Nile
He noted that; “For the first time in over 45 years, rhinos have returned to the West Nile region, symbolising national recovery, resilience, and renewed responsibility towards safeguarding Uganda’s natural heritage”.
This achievement follows the successful translocation of four southern white rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai Wildlife Reserve. The movement represents the first phase of a carefully planned national programme to establish an initial breeding population of 20 rhinos at Ajai. The initiative is guided by the National Rhino Conservation Strategy, which seeks to rebuild Uganda’s rhino population while progressively restoring the species to suitable parts of its former range, particularly in northern Uganda.
Uganda’s current rhino population is the result of nearly three decades of deliberate conservation efforts, including the establishment of a successful breeding programme at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. By December 2025, Uganda’s rhino population had grown to 59 following the importation of additional 8 rhinos from South Africa, strengthening the national recovery programme.
The ultimate objective of the Ajai reintroduction is to establish a secure, free-ranging rhino population in northern Uganda, reduce concentration risks, enhance species resilience, and boost conservation-led tourism and community livelihoods.
Uganda Wildlife Authority reaffirms its commitment to implementing the National Rhino Conservation Strategy with transparency, professionalism, and strong partnerships, calling upon communities, leaders, and partners to collectively protect and benefit from this restored national heritage.
Uganda has made history with the first ever translocation of rhinos from one protected area to another within the country. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has successfully moved 4 southern white rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai Wildlife Reserve in the opening phase of a national programme that will see 20 rhinos relocated to Ajai.
This initiative forms a key component of the National Rhino Conservation Strategy, which is dedicated to rebuilding and safeguarding Uganda’s rhino population while restoring the species to parts of its historical range in northern Uganda. Although the southern white rhino is not an indigenous subspecies, in Uganda its introduction to Ajai Wildlife Reserve is guided by the principle of conservation equivalence. The native northern white rhino subspecies is now functionally extinct, yet both the northern and southern white rhino historically belonged to the same species prior to their separation. As such, the reintroduction of southern white rhinos provides an ecologically credible alternative for restoring rhinos to Uganda’s landscapes.
The four rhinos are now under close observation as they adapt to their new environment. The second phase, involving the remaining 16 rhinos, will take place after successful monitoring and stabilisation of the first group.
Commenting on the milestone, UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, said that the translocation marks a new chapter in Uganda’s conservation journey. “The return of rhinos to Ajai is a proud and emotional moment for Uganda. It reflects years of dedicated conservation work and a highly successful breeding programme at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where our rhino population has steadily grown under careful protection. This next step strengthens species recovery and restores an important part of our natural heritage for future generations.”
Uganda once had both rhino species, the northern white and the eastern black. The northern white rhinos were confined west of the Albert Nile in the then West Nile district with their home in Ajai, while the Eastern Black was confined to the east of the Albert Nile and North of Victoria Nile, spanning the then Acholi, Lango and Karamoja areas. However, they were wiped out during the period of insecurity in the country due to poaching and habitat loss, the last rhino was killed in Narus Valley in Kidepo in 1983.
The systematic rhino reintroduction/introduction program started in 1997 with the establishment of Rhino Fund Uganda. Awareness began in 2001 with the importation of 2 rhinos from Kenya and their placement at the former UWEC. In 2005/6, breeding started at Ziwa with the importation of 4 rhinos from Solio in Kenya and 2 from Disney Animal Kingdom in Florida, USA. The six formed the founder population for the breeding program at ziwa that grew to 49. In December 2025, an additional 8 southern white rhinos were imported from South Africa to supplement the Ziwa population in line with the National Rhino Strategy goal.
UWA appeals to neighbouring communities and the wider public to support this national conservation effort by reporting any activity that may threaten their safety. The success of this programme depends on our shared responsibility and pride in Uganda’s wildlife heritage.
In preparations to have the Rhinos back in the wild, in Ajai Wildlife Reserve in Madi-Okollo district, which is part of Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Board of Trustees have undertaken a high-level supervisory visit to the Wildlife.
Led by Board Chairman Prof. James Kalema, the visit focused on evaluating progress made in restoring the reserve’s ecological and security readiness ahead of the planned reintroduction of rhinos, decades after the species was wiped out from Uganda’s wild due to poaching and civil instability.
Upon arrival at Ajai Wildlife Reserve headquarters, the Board Chairman, Prof. James Kalema, was received with a guard of honour, inspected a parade, and later commissioned the Ajai Wildlife Reserve headquarters offices.
Mr. Fredrick Kizza, the Chief Warden Murchison Falls Conservation took the board through critical installations across the Wildlife Reserve that form the backbone of the rhino reintroduction programme. These include; the electric fencing system under construction, ranger outposts designed to strengthen surveillance and response, and a water supply network serving both the sanctuary and the wider reserve.
The first batch of four rhinos is expected to arrive at Ajai early next month for initial assessments ahead of the phased introduction of additional rhinos. District leadership from Madi Okollo, including the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the LCV Chairperson, and other local leaders, joined the visit, reaffirming local government support for the return of rhinos and the broader conservation agenda.
Addressing stakeholders, UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi highlighted the Board’s sustained engagement across conservation areas, noting that Ajai’s readiness reflects deliberate investment in infrastructure, manpower, and leadership.
He referenced the recently launched U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt Rhino Fundraising Campaign in New York as part of wider efforts to secure long-term financing for rhino conservation. Dr. Musinguzi also noted plans by the Authority to recruit 500 additional rangers in the coming year to further strengthen manpower.
The RDC of Madi Okollo, Mr. Masereka Kisembo Joshua, welcomed the progress, observing that the return of rhinos positions the district as an emerging tourism destination. He called on local communities to invest in tourism-related enterprises such as accommodation and hospitality services and appealed for continued capacity-building to enable communities to fully benefit from the presence of the reserve.
In his closing remarks, Prof. James Kalema commended the Ajai Wildlife Reserve leadership for fostering strong collaboration with both communities and partners, noting that conservation success depends on trust, professionalism, and shared responsibility. He acknowledged research institutions and contractors for their contributions while emphasizing quality assurance and accountability.
Prof. Kalema joins in the dance as they were received by the community in Ajai
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that conservation delivers tangible benefits to surrounding communities and that the reintroduction of rhinos becomes a catalyst for conservation-led development.
Ajai Wildlife Reserve holds deep historical significance in Uganda’s rhino conservation narrative. By 1965, the reserve supported about 60 of the country’s remaining 80 rhinos. That population was lost by the early 1980s due to rampant poaching and prolonged insecurity.
Uganda’s rhino recovery, however, stands as one of conservation’s notable success stories, with the national population reaching 59 southern white rhinos as of December 2025. This recovery traces back to the establishment of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary following advocacy by Rhino Fund Uganda, where the first six rhinos were introduced in 2005 and 2006
The Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Rt. Col. Tom Butime, expressed his appreciation to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for their commitment and professionalism in fulfilling their role of conserving the nation’s wildlife.
In his speech at the UWA end of year party held at Skyz Hotel in Kampala, Dr. Basil Ajer, Director of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, who represented the minister, highlighted that UWA’s efforts contribute significantly to wildlife conservation, tourism growth, community livelihoods, and environmental sustainability.
He acknowledged the successful arrival of eight rhinos from South Africa, a development that demonstrates increasing international trust in Uganda’s conservation efforts and places a significant responsibility on UWA. He urged the Authority to quickly complete all remaining preparations to ensure the timely transfer of the rhinos from Ziwa to Ajai Wildlife Reserve, a key location in Uganda’s Rhino Restoration Program.
The Under Secretary, Mr. Geoffrey Sseremba, representing the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Katusiime Doreen, noted several advancements in infrastructure and technology, including the deployment of advanced monitoring systems and drones, which have greatly strengthened anti-poaching initiatives.
He encouraged UWA staff, as guardians of Uganda’s natural wealth, to manage these resources with the transparency and dedication expected by the Ugandan people.
UWA Board Chairperson, Prof. James Kalema, expressed gratitude to partners such as WWF, AWF, UTB, and allied agencies including the UPDF and Uganda Police, for their collaboration in helping the Authority fulfill its mandate.
The UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, reported significant progress, particularly in infrastructure development like constructing outposts and staff housing, though more accommodation is still needed. Looking ahead to 2026, Dr. Musinguzi emphasized the importance of staff training to enhance their performance.
He stated, “We are focusing on the welfare of our staff and promoting fairness in our operations. In the upcoming financial year, we plan to prioritize Rangers by increasing their salaries to recognize their exceptional dedication and passion, as they face numerous challenges in the field.”
The event also honored 20 retirees, who were presented by the Commissioner of Human Resource, Mrs. Susan Muhumuza Nyatia, and recognized for their dedication and expertise during their service with UWA.
The Minister of State for Tourism, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, has reaffirmed UWA’s commitment to mitigating human wildlife conflicts by extending the electric fence in Murchison Falls Conservation Area.
He made this statement during an emergency meeting with the community of Pakawera Village, Langele Parish, Lii Sub-county, following the recent elephant attack that resulted in the deaths of Obua Moses and Ouma David.
The Minister revealed that UWA intends to construct an additional 20 kilometers of electric fencing before the end of the current financial year, adding to the 64 kilometers already completed in Nwoya. He also urged the community to promptly report any ongoing human-wildlife conflict issues to the authorities.
“Please report all incidents immediately; the government and UWA are committed to protecting communities living near the park,” he said.
Mr. Fredrick Kiiza, the Chief Warden of Murchison Falls Conservation Area, mentioned that the park currently has 91 kilometers of fencing fully completed, with another 32 kilometers under construction.
The NRM Secretary, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, who was also present at the meeting, encouraged residents to be patient as compensation and mitigation measures are being put in place.
“We understand your grief – the government is committed to ensuring justice and safety. Please stay calm as we expedite compensation and complete fencing in the most affected areas,” he stressed.
The Office of the President donated 5 million shillings to support the burial of the late Ouma David, while UWA contributed 2.5 million shillings for each of the two victims.
Maj. Gen. Busizori Felix, the 4th Division Commander, assured the community that UPDF forces will continue to work alongside UWA on the ground until the elephant incursions are controlled.
The meeting concluded with a decision to begin construction of the next section of the fence next week, starting from Ogello and extending toward Goncogo Village.
Uganda’s ongoing efforts to restore and protect rhinos have earned a place on the international stage following the announcement of the Roosevelt Rhino Campaign after the US–Africa Business Connect Roosevelt Africa Trail Conference in New York City. The campaign, developed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in partnership with the Roosevelt Africa Trail and the Theodore Roosevelt Association, is scheduled for official launch in December 2025.
The Roosevelt Rhino Campaign will see a rhino in Uganda named after former United States President Theodore Roosevelt, drawing inspiration from his 1909–1910 Smithsonian–Roosevelt African Expedition. While rooted in history, the initiative is firmly focused on the present—highlighting Uganda’s steady progress in rebuilding rhino populations and strengthening conservation systems after decades of absence in the wild.
By following the journey of the Roosevelt Rhino from sanctuary protection to eventual rewilding, the campaign will offer global audiences a practical view of how species recovery is planned, funded, and implemented. The christening ceremony will take place in Uganda and will be officiated by a member of the Roosevelt family, reinforcing the international character of the initiative. This will be only the second rhino named after a U.S. president, following “Obama,” a name that carried strong resonance in East Africa.
The first Rhino born at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, named after Obama
The campaign is supported by several linked initiatives designed to broaden public engagement and support. These include Roosevelt Encounters Africa, a children’s educational series produced by NABU, which will feature The Rhino Named Roosevelt and integrate QR codes that allow audiences to contribute directly to conservation efforts.
Private sector and digital innovations also form part of the campaign. Roosevelt Africa Safari Coffee, developed by Kahawa 1893 in partnership with the Roosevelt Africa Trail, will feature the Roosevelt Rhino as a speciality blend, with a portion of proceeds directed toward rhino conservation. In addition, the Roosevelt Africa Virtual Trail will offer an immersive digital experience, enabling audiences around the world to engage with the rhino’s habitat and Uganda’s conservation work.
Speaking at the conference, Dr James Musinguzi, Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority, emphasised that Uganda’s progress in rhino conservation is the result of long-term investment, strong institutions, and trusted partnerships. He noted that initiatives such as the Roosevelt Rhino Campaign help strengthen international understanding and support for wildlife recovery.
Joshua Sentongo, Director of Business Development and Strategy for the Roosevelt Africa Trail, described the campaign as a continuation of a family commitment to conservation. He is the son of the late conservationist Paul Ssali Naluma, whose story, The Wild and the Brave, was nominated for an Oscar in 1975.
The campaign also highlights the link between conservation, culture, and heritage. Dr. Jackline Besigye Nyiracyiza, Acting Commissioner of Museums and Monuments, noted that the increased global visibility would elevate sites such as Rhino Camp and Ajai Wildlife Reserve, positioning them as important destinations for heritage and conservation tourism. She further highlighted the role of Intelligent Trail Markers, developed in partnership with a Tech Consortium led by MIT Creative Technologist Rus Gant, in helping visitors connect more deeply with Uganda’s natural and cultural heritage.
The Roosevelt Rhino Campaign will unfold through a series of milestones. A hybrid launch in Uganda and the United States is planned for December 18, 2025, including a live event at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. A mid-campaign engagement at the Roosevelt Library is scheduled for July 4, 2026, followed by the official christening of the Roosevelt Rhino in September 2026.
Through the Roosevelt Rhino Campaign, Uganda is reinforcing its commitment to long-term wildlife recovery while inviting global partners, institutions, and individuals to support the careful work required to return rhinos to the country’s protected landscapes.
Uganda has received eight Southern White Rhinos from Munyawana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, donated to the Ugandan government by African Parks. The rhinos arrived at Entebbe International Airport at 2:30 a.m. and were officially received by Dr. Basil Ajer, Director of Tourism Development, representing the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
Among the eight rhinos, there are four males and four females, a balanced group aimed at enhancing breeding and supporting long-term population growth. Dr. Ajer stated that the arrival of these rhinos, highlights Uganda’s growing credibility 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 added that 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.
Mr. John Makombo, Commissioner of Biodiversity Management, speaking on behalf of the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Executive Director, described the arrival of the rhinos as a significant reinforcement of Uganda’s conservation initiatives.
He said, “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 added that Uganda Wildlife Authority will protect the rhinos and provide an environment conducive to their reproduction.
Representing African Parks at the handover, Operations and Logistics Manager Martine Rickelton expressed that the donation reflects African Parks’ long-term commitment to supporting countries that host rhinos.
“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.
After their arrival, the rhinos were moved to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for mandatory quarantine, veterinary care, and acclimatization before being fully integrated with the existing rhino population there.
With these eight new rhinos, Uganda’s total rhino population now reaches 59, all under active protection, marking a significant advancement in the country’s national rhino recovery efforts.
Uganda’s rhino restoration continues to progress under the National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy. Preparations are underway to introduce more rhinos into Kidepo Valley National Park to broaden the species’ national range.
Additionally, plans are being finalized to translocate selected rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai Wildlife Reserve as part of a phased national plan to re-establish rhinos in protected areas where they once thrived.
The reception was also witnessed by the senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board and UWA senior management.
Uganda Wildlife Authority is hosting communication officers from local governments to strengthen collaboration and improve joint conservation efforts across the country.
Over 50 officials from districts neighboring Uganda’s National Parks and other conservation areas, are in the Queen Elizabeth Conservation area for two days to learn about how Uganda Wildlife Authority carries out its conservation work through habitat restoration, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, community conservation, and livelihood support programs.
Senior Engineer Paul Godfrey Kiwanuka Sennyonjo, representing the chief warden, highlighted the important role communication officers play in setting the agenda and shaping public opinion by keeping the public informed about the government’s daily activities. He called for ongoing cooperation between UWA and local government communicators.
On the first day, the participants took part in an experiential learning tour that included a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where they observed aquatic wildlife up close, as well as the nearby fishing village. This experience was designed not only to showcase Uganda as a tourism destination but also to help the team understand how humans and wildlife can coexist.
Later, the group visited Kabiruzi village in Katwe sub-county, Kasese district, to see the 126 km electric fence that has been installed to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, particularly with elephants that previously raided gardens. Now, thriving banana plantations and maize fields can be seen just beside the fence.
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), working together with the Jane Goodall Institute/Kibale Chimpanzee Project (JGI/KCP), on September 18, 2025 successfully darted and relocated an adult male chimpanzee that appeared in a widely shared social media video attacking a boda boda passenger.
The operation was carried out by a team of veterinarians led by Dr. Nathan Mweru of JGI/KCP in collaboration with UWA’s veterinary department. The chimpanzee was safely immobilized, examined, and transported in a translocation crate. It has now been received at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe, where it will be monitored and managed in a secure environment.
The move follows heightened public concern after a widely circulated video showed the chimpanzee displaying aggressive behavior towards a motorcycle passenger, raising awareness about the risks posed by displaced or habituated wild animals.
UWA reminds the public that while chimpanzees share close genetic similarities with humans, they remain strong, unpredictable wild animals that can pose risks when they stray into human settlements. Close interaction between people and chimpanzees not only endangers lives but also compromises the survival of these endangered primates.
“This action demonstrates our commitment to keeping both communities and wildlife safe,” said Mr. Bashir Hangi, UWA Communications Manager. “We urge the public to avoid approaching, feeding, or attempting to handle chimpanzees and other wild animals. Any sightings should be reported immediately to UWA for professional response.”
Chimpanzees are a protected species and an important part of Uganda’s biodiversity. UWA remains committed to safeguarding wildlife while ensuring peaceful coexistence between communities and the species that make Uganda one of the world’s top conservation.
