13 September 2026
Twenty black rhinos have been moved from KwaZulu-Natal to Botswana as part of a major conservation project aimed at establishing a new, genetically diverse population and expanding the species’ range.
KZN Ezemevelo Wildlife’s Ayanda Dube said the initiative was crucial for the survival of the species.
“The 20 animals were captured about eight weeks ago across seven game reserves. Some of these reserves are managed directly by Ezemvelo, while others are existing prep sites.
“Ezemvelo then combines this progeny with additional animals from its own reserves to assemble a new genetically diverse founder population.”
The translocation formed part of the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, which is a joint initiative led by Ezemvelo and the World Wide Fund for Nature.
The Botswana translocation marked the 18th new black rhino population established through the project since it began in 2003.
Dube says the moves give the new population a stronger chance to establish itself, reproduce, and eventually expand into the surrounding wild
“This approach also allows Ezemvelo to distribute black rhino to new game reserves and new habitats across the region while ensuring the animals remain well-managed and monitored.”
Source: https://shorturl.at/dsGb1
