WEST NILE – After more than four decades, rhinos are finally back home at Ajai Wildlife Reserve.
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) successfully translocated four southern white rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai, marking the first phase of a national programme that will see 20 rhinos gradually relocated to the reserve.
The initiative forms a central part of Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation Strategy, which aims to rebuild and safeguard the country’s rhino population while restoring the species to its historical range in northern Uganda.
The reopening of Ajai Wildlife Reserve was marked by a high-profile ceremony attended by the Minister of Tourism, Presidential Advisor on Tourism Lilly Ajarova, UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi, and government officials from across the West Nile region.
In his address, Dr Musinguzi highlighted the historical significance and ecological suitability of Ajai, describing it as the ideal home for rhino translocation. “This milestone is the result of over three decades of sustained conservation efforts,” he said, adding that the success lays a strong foundation for the reserve’s future.
Dr Musinguzi described the return of the rhinos as “proud and emotional,” reflecting years of dedicated conservation work and the successful breeding programme at Ziwa. At Ajai, rangers and veterinarians closely monitored the animals as they were carefully offloaded and released into their new home.
Observers reported that the rhinos were walking, grazing, and beginning to adapt well, signalling a promising start to the reintroduction programme.
Beyond conservation, the project is expected to bring broader benefits, including infrastructural development, job creation, and improved facilities for surrounding communities.
“This is just the beginning,” Musinguzi said, revealing plans to translocate six more rhinos after the elections, gradually building the population to 20. Additional wildlife reintroductions, including giraffes, are also planned to restore Ajai’s ecological balance.
New game-drive trails have already been introduced, and Musinguzi announced the forthcoming Roosevelt Rhino Track, in honour of the late U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, expected to attract international visitors. A monument commemorating King Ajai is also planned, recognising his legacy and vision for conservation.
Following the official opening, leaders took part in the inaugural rhino trekking experience—an emotional and symbolic moment for a reserve that has waited more than four decades for this return.
With its reopening and the rhinos’ successful reintroduction, Ajai Wildlife Reserve is now poised to become a centre for conservation excellence and a thriving tourism destination in West Nile.
