Hope: Private ranch in Uganda now home to nearly 50 rhinos – previously extinct

Political instability, poaching, and illegal horn trade abruptly ended a once-thriving population. But now, hope is blossoming again thanks to a unique private initiative at Ziwa Ranch in central Uganda.

Previously home to 7,000 cattle, Ziwa Ranch today hosts nearly 50 southern white rhinos roaming freely within its natural 70-square-kilometer area of swamps, savannah, and woodland. The project began in 2005 when Rhino Fund Uganda partnered with ranch owner Joseph Charles Roy. The cattle were relocated, making way for six white rhinos—four from Kenya and two flown in from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida.

Success came quicker than anticipated. In just two decades, the rhino population has grown from the original six to nearly 50, with five calves born in the past three months alone. This impressive growth is primarily due to the ranch’s ideal habitat and comprehensive protection measures by dedicated rangers who provide around-the-clock surveillance, effectively deterring poachers.

Yet, the project’s success also poses new challenges. The ranch is nearing its maximum capacity, prompting plans to relocate some rhinos to other protected areas in Uganda where they historically roamed. Ajai Wildlife Reserve in northwestern Uganda is currently being prepared by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to welcome the first 20 rhinos before 2026.

Relocating rhinos is a significant undertaking requiring careful preparation and financial support. The UWA is intensively securing the reserve against poaching, constructing electrified fences, and hiring local rangers to ensure the rhinos’ protection. Success in Ajai could pave the way for additional reintroductions into national parks such as Kidepo and Murchison Falls.

For Uganda, the return of rhinos also carries symbolic importance, highlighting the country’s regained stability and its ability to protect endangered species. This revival could enhance biodiversity and attract more tourists, benefiting both nature and the economy.

Thus, Ziwa Ranch has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that dedicated private initiatives combined with governmental support can reverse negative trends and create successful outcomes for wildlife and people alike.

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