Uganda has reintroduced rhinos into the wild in a landmark conservation milestone, marking the species’ return to Ajai Wildlife Reserve more than 40 years after they were wiped out by poaching and conflict, Xinhua news reported.
An initial group of southern white rhinos was translocated from the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where Uganda’s rhino population has been successfully rebuilt through decades of conservation efforts. The move is part of a phased plan to restore a sustainable breeding population in the reserve.
According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the reintroduction represents a major step in restoring the country’s natural heritage and strengthening biodiversity conservation. Authorities say more rhinos will be introduced over time to support population growth and ecological balance.
Once home to a thriving rhino population, Ajai Wildlife Reserve lost the species in the early 1980s due to widespread poaching. Conservationists say the return of rhinos not only restores a critical species to its habitat but also holds potential to boost eco-tourism and support local economic development.
