The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has launched a new Rhino Sanctuary at the Kidepo Valley Conservation Area, marking a major milestone in efforts to restore Uganda’s rhino population.
The development has been supported by the European Union through the NaturAfrica Kidepo–Turkana Landscape Project, a cross-border conservation initiative aimed at protecting biodiversity while improving community livelihoods.
The new sanctuary is part of a broader strategy to prepare Kidepo for the eventual reintroduction of rhinos, which once roamed parts of northern Uganda before they were wiped out due to poaching and insecurity.
Speaking at the launch, a UWA official described the project as a turning point for conservation in the region.
“This Rhino Sanctuary is a bold step toward restoring a species that is part of Uganda’s natural heritage. We are putting in place the right infrastructure, security systems, and community partnerships to ensure success,” the official said.
In addition to the sanctuary, a Joint Operations Command Centre has been commissioned to strengthen surveillance and coordination. Motorcycles have also been deployed to improve ranger mobility and response time during field patrols.
According to conservation leaders, enhanced security will be critical in protecting wildlife and creating a safe environment for rhino reintroduction.
A representative of the EU noted that the partnership goes beyond wildlife protection. “NaturAfrica supports conservation that benefits both nature and people. Strong ecosystems create opportunities for tourism, jobs, and community development,” the representative said.
Local leaders welcomed the initiative, saying it brings hope for economic growth through tourism and employment.
With infrastructure, security, and partnerships now taking shape, Kidepo is steadily positioning itself for the long-anticipated return of rhinos to the wild.
