The population of rhinos in Kenya has increased by 497 in the last four years, a report by the Economic Survey 2025 has stated.
According to the survey, most of the wildlife population remained stable for all species except for the rhino.
“In the year 2020, the black rhinos were at 853 while for southern white rhinos they were at 750,” the report reads in part.
“For the Black Rhino and the Southern White Rhino, their population increased to 1,059 and 1,041, respectively, in 2024.”
In the year 2020, the total number of rhinos was 1603, while in the year 2024, the total number of rhinos was 2100, representing a 31 per cent increase.
Among the wildlife population that remained stable were: elephant, hirola antelope, mountain bongo, spotted hyena, lions, cheetah, African wild dogs and leopards.
On January 16, 2025, Save the Rhino International noted that the translocation efforts in February 2024, where 21 black rhinos were moved to a new population in Laikipia, also contributed to increasing rhino populations.
They added that rangers played a crucial role in protecting rhinos, making a significant commitment to safeguarding them.
On February 25, the Kenya Wildlife Service embarked on a significant conservation effort in the Maasai Mara Conservancy by ear-notching and fitting transmitters on 17 endangered black rhinos.
The initiative was being conducted in collaboration with several key partners, including the Maasai Mara Conservancy, Wildlife Research Training Institute (WRTI) and 51 Degrees.
“With the support of trained professionals, pilots and drivers, the team demonstrated remarkable dedication to the cause, following the three guiding principles of discipline, safety and teamwork,” KWS said.
The other partners were The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Safari Collection, Asian Wildlife Foundation, The Footprint Foundation and the Maasai Mara National Reserve, led by Chief Warden Stephen Minis.
by CHRISTABEL ADHIAMBO
