The Tanzanian government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, has received 17 white rhinos from AndBeyond, a South African conservation company, in a historic move aimed at strengthening conservation efforts, research, and education in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Speaking during the handover ceremony held on March 4, 2025, at the Ngorongoro Crater, Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana (MP), stated that the introduction of white rhinos to Tanzania is a significant milestone in expanding conservation efforts and providing research opportunities. She emphasized that these rhinos will serve as an educational resource for both local communities and international visitors eager to learn about wildlife conservation.
“The arrival of these 17 rhinos from South Africa marks the first phase of this initiative. In the second phase, we expect to receive an additional 19 rhinos, bringing the total to 36, which will be distributed across various conservation areas in the country,” said Dr. Chana.
Boosting Conservation Efforts
Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) Conservation Commissioner, Dr. Elirehema Doriye, highlighted that rhinos remain among the most endangered species due to poaching and habitat destruction.
He noted that the introduction of white rhinos to the Ngorongoro Crater is a crucial step in ensuring the survival of these iconic animals.
"Ngorongoro is proud to be one of the few places in Africa where black rhinos continue to thrive. Working with national and international research institutions, we conducted a thorough assessment to ensure that Ngorongoro meets the requirements for hosting white rhinos, further strengthening conservation efforts," said Dr. Doriye.
A Historic Conservation Milestone
Retired General Venance Mabeyo, Chairman of the NCAA Board of Directors, described the arrival of the 17 white rhinos as a historic achievement for Tanzania, reinforcing the country’s commitment to wildlife preservation.
“This marks a new chapter for conservation in Tanzania. The NCAA Board will continue to oversee management efforts to prioritize rhino security, working closely with conservation stakeholders to enhance anti-poaching strategies. These include the use of advanced technology such as drones, GPS tracking, and dedicated ranger patrol units operating around the clock,” Mabeyo stated.
Strengthening South Africa-Tanzania Relations
South African traditional leader, iNkosi Zwelinzima Gumede, who represented cultural leaders at the event, said that donating these rhinos to Tanzania aligns with broader conservation goals and strengthens the historical ties between the two nations, rooted in the legacies of the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Nelson Mandela.
“Before relocating these rhinos to Ngorongoro, our experts conducted thorough assessments to confirm that this area provides a suitable natural habitat. Research has demonstrated that this conservation area is truly a home for rhinos, and we are confident that these new arrivals will adapt well and reproduce successfully,” said iNkosi Gumede.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, district leaders from Ngorongoro, Karatu, and Monduli, representatives from AndBeyond, NCAA board members, and key stakeholders from the conservation and tourism sectors.
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