Wondering about the future of rhino conservation in Kenya and the planned goal of 2000 black rhinos in Kenya by 2030? How realistic is this goal, and what needs to be done to achieve it? {Kenya Black Rhino Action Plan }
These were some of the questions raised by more than 30 professionals at the meeting held at the Mpala Research Center in November. Rhino biology, habitat, population dynamics, translocation techniques, security, and KWS policy and guidelines were all examined in some detail. Additional information about rhino population growth, translocation, and custody was shared by visitors from Southern Africa.
As of the end of 2018 – here are some key statistics regarding black rhino conservation in the Country:
| Rhino lands | total | Area (Km2) |
| State lands (#9 populations) | 375 | 16,963 |
| Private lands (#4 populations) | 331 | 894.4 |
| County lands (#1 population) | 45 | 1,510 |
| Community lands (#1 population) | 15 | 107 |
| TOTAL (# 15 populations) | 766 | 19,474.4 |
This total population of Eastern black rhinos (Diceros bicornis michaeli) forms part of a national rhino population including southern white rhinos and two remaining northern white rhinos. The total at the end of 2018 was 1390 individuals.
The Greater Laikipia Landscape features prominently in possible plans to increase the area under rhino conservation – but key issues of communities, counties, cultures and costs prevail. About half of the present population of black rhinos can be found in our landscape.
Existing black rhino conservation areas
Stay tuned for the final report resulting from this meeting.
