Ngorongoro. Tanzania has received 18 white rhinos from South Africa as part of efforts to bolster its wildlife conservation efforts.
The translocation, a first for Tanzania, aims to revitalise the presence of this endangered species within the country, particularly within the renowned Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana, presided over the handover ceremony held on March 4, 2025 in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, in Arusha Region.
“This initiative to introduce white rhinos into the Ngorongoro ecosystem represents a crucial step in our ongoing commitment to enhance conservation activities,” she declared.
The translocation of the wild animals was conducted through a partnership between the Ministry and the tourism operator, AndBeyond.
The white rhino, a species heavily impacted by poaching and habitat loss, is classified as near threatened, with the Southern white rhino subspecies, from which these animals originate, having seen some recovery thanks to intensive conservation efforts in South Africa.
However, the threat of poaching, driven by the demand for rhino horn in illegal markets, remains a critical concern.
The Dr Chana explained that AndBeyond facilitated the sourcing and transportation of the 18 rhinos in this initial phase, with a second phase planned to bring the total to 36.
These animals will not only reside in Ngorongoro but are also earmarked for relocation to other suitable conservation areas within Tanzania, further diversifying their distribution and enhancing national resilience against localised threats.
This strategic dispersal is crucial, given the potential risks of concentrating the entire population in one location.
Dr Chana expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her unwavering support of conservation initiatives, emphasising the importance of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in safeguarding these animals.
She underscored Tanzania’s commitment to supporting regional conservation efforts within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), promoting in-situ conservation within natural habitats rather than reliance on captive breeding programmes.
The initiative is not merely a population boost; it also serves as an educational tool for local communities, fostering a deeper understanding of wildlife management and conservation.
Furthermore, the rhinos will contribute to valuable research, enhancing scientific knowledge of the species and informing future conservation strategies.
The presence of these iconic animals is also expected to enhance tourism, a vital economic driver for Tanzania.
Commissioner for Conservation at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), Dr Elirehema Doriye, reiterated Tanzania’s dedication to protecting this endangered species.
“These rhinos will contribute to global conservation efforts, provide opportunities for research and expertise, boost local economies, promote tourism, and ensure the NCAA is fully prepared to safeguard their well-being,” he said.
A representative of traditional leaders from South Africa, iNkosi Zwelinzima Gumede, said the goal of bringing the animals to Tanzania is to expand the white rhino population within East Africa.
“Research indicates that these rhinos will thrive and reproduce successfully in the Ngorongoro area,” he said, pledging South Africa’s continued support for Tanzania’s conservation endeavours.
The translocation is taking place against a backdrop of increasing international concern over wildlife trafficking and the urgent need for collaborative conservation efforts.
The success of this project will depend on robust anti-poaching measures, continued community engagement, and ongoing scientific monitoring.
