September 22, 2023

• Africa’s rhino population has increased by 5.2% by the end of 2022, reaching 23,290 animals. White rhinos have achieved their first increase in a decade, with their population growing by 5.6%. Black rhinos have also increased by 4.2%.

• Despite the overall growth in rhino populations, more than 550 rhinos were illegally killed across the continent in 2022. South Africa was the hardest hit, with a loss of 438 animals.

• The announcement of the African Parks conservation NGO acquiring about 2,000 southern white rhinos in South Africa’s North West offers hope for the entire African rhino herd. These rhinos will be rewilded over the next decade, potentially increasing the population to 3,000.

Africa’s rhino population has shown promising signs of recovery, offering a ray of hope in the battle against poaching and habitat loss. According to the latest data from the IUCN African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG), which compiled rhino statistics from across the continent, Africa’s rhino population has increased by 5.2% by the end of 2022, reaching 23,290 individuals.

White Rhinos Make a Remarkable Comeback: In a significant milestone, the white rhino population, the larger and more docile of the two African species, has experienced its first increase since 2012. The population of white rhinos now stands at more than 16,800, marking a 5.6% growth.

Black Rhinos Thriving Amid Conservation Efforts: Critically endangered black rhinos have also seen a noteworthy resurgence, reaching nearly 6,500. This 4.2% increase is attributed to rigorous protection measures and effective biological management initiatives.

Kenya’s Success in Curbing Rhino Poaching: In a particularly encouraging development, Kenya, a critical habitat for rhinos, reported a decline in rhino poaching in 2022. Official records indicate just one poaching incident, a significant improvement compared to the previous year’s six incidents. This achievement underscores the importance of robust anti-poaching efforts and the involvement of local communities in conservation.

Challenges Looming Large: While these positive trends are cause for celebration, challenges persist, threatening the progress made in rhino conservation. Namibia, for instance, detected 93 poached rhinos in 2022, compared to 47 the previous year. The issue of poaching remains a significant concern, especially in South Africa.

South Africa Bears the Brunt of Poaching: In 2022, South Africa experienced a substantial loss of rhinos, with 438 animals falling victim to poaching. The latest national poaching data from the first half of 2023 indicates that 231 of these animals were poached within South Africa’s borders, with poaching activities shifting to the KwaZulu-Natal region. South Africa remains a stronghold for rhinos globally but faces ongoing challenges in protecting its rhino population.

A Beacon of Hope: Amidst these challenges, a recent development has injected renewed hope into the conservation efforts. African Parks, a Johannesburg-based conservation NGO, acquired approximately 2,000 southern white rhinos previously owned by private rhino rancher John Hume. These rhinos will be rewilded into safe zones over the next decade, contributing significantly to the population. Conservation groups plan to relocate 300 animals annually to rewilding zones in several African states.

A Call for Vigilance and Community Engagement: While celebrating the positive trajectory of African rhino populations, conservation experts emphasize the need for ongoing vigilance. Dr Sam Ferreira, AfRSG scientific officer and large mammal ecologist highlights the importance of making rhinos relevant to local communities. He stresses the value of trust-building among governments, private industries, and non-governmental organizations in conservation efforts.

Thinking Small for Big Impact: Ferreira’s advice is clear: don’t go too big. Smaller, community-driven conservation areas allow for greater situational awareness, engaged local participation, and detailed knowledge of individual rhinos. This approach ensures that both problems and solutions are addressed at the grassroots level, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among local stakeholders.

Africa’s rhino population’s recent growth is a testament to the dedication of conservationists and local communities. However, the battle against poaching and habitat loss is far from over. With continued vigilance, innovative conservation strategies, and community involvement, there is hope that Africa’s rhinos will continue to thrive and contribute to the broader ecological health of the continent.