The number of rhinos in Africa has significantly increased despite ongoing poaching, with plans to release 2,000 more rhinos into the wild. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the number of free-roaming rhinos in Africa has increased significantly from the previous year due to protective measures and biological management. The number of black rhinos has increased by 4.2% to 6,487, while the number of white rhinos has increased by 5.6% to 16,803. This is the first increase in white rhino numbers since 2012, according to Dr. Michael Knight, Chairman of the IUCN African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG).
Despite South Africa still having the largest number of rhinos, it continues to suffer from high levels of poaching. In 2022, 448 rhinos were illegally killed, compared to 451 in 2021. In Namibia, a total of 93 poached rhinos were recorded in 2022, compared to 47 the previous year. Official figures from Kenya show that one rhino was poached in 2022, compared to six the previous year. Rhino populations are important drivers of biodiversity and ecology in Africa, creating habitats for other species and providing opportunities for future global restoration and rewilding projects.
This year, a project to breed white rhinos was sold to the African Parks Foundation. Over the next decade, African Parks and its partners will attempt to relocate and reintroduce these 2,000 rhinos into the wild. Finding safe and connected habitats for rhino populations will not be easy, but the opportunity will encourage conservationists to try innovative approaches, including increased rhino protection by local communities. A thriving rhino population can also contribute to the quality of life and prosperity of local communities, attract tourists from around the world, create jobs, and contribute to economic development. While the increase in rhino numbers is a positive development, it is crucial to build on this progress and remain vigilant in protecting these endangered animals.
