S.A Sends Black Rhinos to Mozambique After 50 Years of Being Critically Endangered

In a powerful act of ecological restoration and transboundary cooperation, ten critically endangered black rhinos have been successfully translocated from South Africa to Zinave National Park, marking the return of the species to Mozambique for the first time in five decades.

The new arrivals — five males and five females — were donated by South Africa’s Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife in partnership with Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC) and the Peace Parks Foundation. The initiative was funded by players of the UK People’s Postcode Lottery, whose contributions enabled this next phase in rewilding efforts.

“This is a powerful moment for conservation in southern Africa and a clear signal that African-led efforts can restore what was once lost,” said Dr Dion George, South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

Restoring Biodiversity, Building a Future

Zinave National Park, located in Mozambique’s Inhambane Province, is now home to 47 black rhinos, including those introduced during previous phases of this long-term programme. The goal is to establish a viable breeding population and elevate Zinave’s status as Mozambique’s only “Big Five” national park, enhancing its global conservation value and tourism potential.

The rhinos were carefully selected from Ithala Game Reserve and the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, relocated to holding bomas at Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, and later embarked on a 48-hour road journey to Zinave — a complex logistical effort overseen by conservation experts.

“We are proud to have once again translocated healthy, well-cared-for animals. This reaffirms our commitment to securing a future for rhinos across Africa,” said Sihle Mkhize, CEO of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.

Regional Collaboration and Global Standards

The translocation was conducted under strict compliance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). South Africa’s Environmental Management Inspectors and the Border Management Authority were present to verify microchip numbers and monitor export protocols.

Peace Parks Foundation CEO Werner Myburgh noted that Zinave is now a cornerstone of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, demonstrating how cross-border collaboration can successfully revive ecosystems decimated by past instability.

“The extensive rewilding and restoration at Zinave has breathed new life into this park — for the benefit of both people and nature,” said Myburgh.

Climate Action Through Conservation

Beyond biodiversity, this project contributes to climate resilience. Restored ecosystems serve as carbon sinks, with the capacity to increase carbon uptake up to 12 times. Black rhinos, as ecosystem engineers, play a critical role in shaping the landscape and maintaining natural balances that combat climate change.

“By restoring species and ecosystems, we restore the earth’s capacity to heal. This is not just about rhinos — it’s about the planet,” said Clara Govier, Managing Director of People’s Postcode Lottery.

A Pan-African Vision for Wildlife and Communities

The reintroduction of black rhinos forms part of a broader co-management agreement between ANAC and Peace Parks Foundation signed in 2015. Since then, 2,540 animals from 16 different species have been introduced to Zinave. The long-term vision is to build a thriving ecological system that supports biodiversity, attracts eco-tourism, and provides sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

“Zinave now hosts both black and white rhinos — a remarkable conservation recovery just a few years in the making,” said Mozambican Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries, Roberto Albino. “We welcome the world to witness what is possible through shared vision and continental cooperation.”

A Future Rooted in African Sovereignty and Stewardship

As African countries increasingly lead on conservation, the return of the black rhino to Mozambique stands as a beacon of Pan-African environmental leadership. It underscores the importance of local stewardship, regional collaboration, and global solidarity in securing the continent’s natural heritage.

“This effort is a testament to Africa’s capacity to protect its own, restore its land, and inspire a future where wildlife thrives in harmony with people,” said Pejul Calenga, Director General of ANAC.