Black Rhino founder population return to Mozambique
Image: Reuters, Siphiwe Sibeko
This week marks a monumental step in wildlife conservation as ten critically endangered black rhinos were successfully translocated from South Africa to Zinave National Park in Mozambique.
This significant effort aims to establish the first founder population of black rhinos in the region, a remarkable comeback after the species was declared locally extinct five decades ago.
The initiative was made possible through the generous donation of five male and five female rhinos from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, South Africa's provincial conservation authority, in collaboration with Mozambique's National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC) and the Peace Parks Foundation.
The translocation has also been financially supported by players of the UK People's Postcode Lottery.
With the introduction of these ten rhinos, alongside 37 already thriving in the park, the initiative intends to bolster biodiversity and establish Zinave as Mozambique's only 'big five' national park.
Dr. Dion George, the South African Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, hailed the successful transfer as a tremendous conservation milestone.
"Establishing new founder populations is vital for securing the future of these species," he said, praising the efforts of the Mozambican authorities and peace conservation partners.
The journey that led to this success story began in 2024, with Ezemvelo's esteemed Game Capture Unit capturing the selected rhinos at various game reserves.
After being housed in specially prepared facilities at Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, the rhinos were well cared for while awaiting their 48-hour journey to the lush habitats of Zinave.
Pejul Calenga, Director General of ANAC, expressed immense gratitude to the South African Government and their partners for facilitating this pivotal restoration of Mozambique's wildlife.
"We are pleased with this process and invite everyone to contribute to protecting our conservation areas," Calenga stated, highlighting the complexities of this translocation as the first of its kind in 2025.
Moreover, on-the-ground management and meticulous planning were vital to ensuring compliance with international regulations.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Management Inspectors collaborated closely with officials from the Border Management Authority to verify all necessary permits were in order before the rhinos embarked on their journey.
This successful operation follows the initial translocation of rhinos to Zinave in 2022, which launched Mozambique's efforts to restore its black and white rhino populations.
Significant support from the UK People's Postcode Lottery, including a £800,000 funding initiative in 2023, has been instrumental in enabling this latest important phase.
'Our commitment to rewilding critically endangered species is at the heart of our mission,' stated Clara Govier, Managing Director of the UK People's Postcode Lottery. 'This historic translocation wouldn't have happened without the collective efforts of many.'
The overarching aim of this collaborative rewilding project, initiated with a co-management agreement between ANAC and Peace Parks signed in 2015, strives to create a healthy ecosystem while attracting tourism and enhancing the livelihoods of local communities.
Thus far, 2,540 game animals from 16 different species have been introduced to Zinave, and the recent addition of black rhinos is considered a pinnacle achievement within this wildlife reintroduction programme.
Peace Parks CEO, Werner Myburgh, extended heartfelt thanks to all those involved in this initiative.
He affirmed that such conservation successes underscore the significance of partnerships in achieving ambitious wildlife restoration goals.
'With thanks to our supporters, we continue to work towards reviving thriving wildlife populations, fostering hope for future generations,' Myburgh declared.
As these black rhinos find their new home in Mozambique, a crucial part of the African ecological tapestry, their presence heralds an encouraging future for biodiversity restoration efforts.
With the establishment of viable breeding populations of both black and white rhinos in Zinave National Park, the collaboration serves as a testament to the power of teamwork in conserving endangered wildlife.
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