Seventeen black rhinos, which were transported from South Africa, were all successfully released into a park in Malawi yesterday. This is one of the largest international black rhino translocations to date.
The translocation was carried out in conjunction with WWF South Africa, Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.
The shared vision was to bolster Malawi’s existing rhino populations and to support regional efforts to conserve this critically endangered species.
Two of Liwonde National Park’s existing rhinos will be moved to Majete Wildlife Reserve and another rhino from Majete to Liwonde to improve genetic diversity and create a healthy population of rhinos for Malawi.
Extensive measures are being taken to protect these animals, including aerial surveillance, daily ranger patrols and the integration of the most advanced technology to enable their live-time tracking, including using GPS sensor devices provided by Smart Parks, and 24-hour protection.
With fewer than 5,500 black rhinos remaining in the wild, translocations to well-protected areas are essential in providing for their long-term survival.
This is an extremely hopeful endeavour for rhinos, where extreme efforts are being taken to supplement secure rhino populations, which is a testament to the Malawian Government and all of the partners involved.
The translocation was also made possible with the support of Stichting Natura Africae, Vale Logistics and Save the Rhino International.
In addition, WWF Belgium, The Wyss Foundation, and the People’s Postcode Lottery have also provided significant multi-year support for the ongoing management of these parks.
Images: Love Wild Africa and Kyle De Nobrega
