Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities in partnership with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) will jointly host inaugural Rhino Naming Ceremony on September 22, 2025, at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District.
According to officials the event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Name A Rhino Campaign—a five-year fundraising initiative valued at Shs 40 billion launched last year to secure and expand Uganda’s rhino population.
UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi says that the ceremony will provide individuals, corporations, and philanthropists the unique opportunity to symbolically “adopt” and name a rhino while proceeds from this event will directly fund Rhino habitat expansion,veterinary care, anti-poaching efforts, and community conservation programs.
“This ceremony celebrates our remarkable journey from rhino extinction in the wild during the 1980s to the current population of 48 rhinos in Uganda, including 46 at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. It is also a call to action. Naming one of the 17 calves and juveniles offers a chance for lasting legacy while supporting critical conservation work.”he said.
According to Musinguzi Uganda’s rhino population was driven to extinction in the wild by poaching and habitat loss however, since 2006, the breeding program at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has welcomed 40 Southern White Rhino calves, growing from an initial founder population of six.
“The Name A Rhino initiative aims to support ongoing breeding, reintroduce rhinos into the wild starting with Ajai Wildlife Reserve, enhance anti-poaching efforts, and promote habitat protection and community involvement,”he stressed.
Musinguzi says arhino translocation committee has been established by UWA and is working tirelessly to ensure the successful relocation of rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve before the end of 2025.
“Protecting Rhinos is about more than saving a species; it’s about safeguarding ecosystems, supporting tourism, and generating sustainable benefits for communities.” Musinguzi emphasized.
UWA invites individuals, corporations, philanthropists, and global conservation supporters to join the Name A Rhino Campaign.
State Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Martin Mugarra noted that the translocation of rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve will connect the West Nile region to Uganda’s tourism circuit, offering a larger rhino habitat and creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism.
“The first-ever Rhino naming ceremony is a proud moment for Uganda and a powerful symbol of our commitment to conservation,” he said.
“Rhinos are not only a vital part of our natural heritage but also an asset that can drive tourism, create jobs, and promote sustainable growth. This year, we take a bold step by reintroducing rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve. I urge every citizen, company, and partner to join this legacy. Naming a rhino is more than giving it a name—it secures the future of conservation in Uganda.”he added.
Uganda Tourism Board BCEO Juliana Kagwa highlighted the event’s broader significance, saying, “This ceremony goes beyond naming; it showcases Uganda’s dedication to sustainable tourism. Our natural heritage is our competitive edge, and protecting it ensures Uganda remains a top destination for authentic wildlife experiences.”
