The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Zeitz Foundation launched a rhino translocation initiative to the Segera Conservancy in Laikipia on May 24.
The project, officiated by Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, will see 21 eastern black rhinos moved to the 200 square kilometre conservancy with the goal of creating one of the largest connected rhino ranges in the world.
The first phase of the translocation began this week and is expected to take approximately 18 days. The exercise will contribute to Kenya’s long-term goal of reaching a national black rhino population of 2 000 by 2037. The rhinos have been sourced from the nearby Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
“The translocation is a bold affirmation of Kenya’s enduring commitment to securing a future for one of the world’s most iconic yet critically endangered species,” said Miano. “Kenya is home to 80% of the eastern black rhino population, which has grown from 384 in 1989 to 1 059 by the end of 2024.”
Erustus Kanga, Director-General of KWS, noted the broader conservation vision that underpins the exercise: “This translocation marks a significant milestone to reactivate new conservation frontiers in northern Kenya. Conservation is no longer confined to formally protected areas; it can thrive wherever land, good governance and love for wildlife converge.”
Segera Conservancy’s role in the national rhino conservation strategy is to provide space for range expansion and relieve pressure on sanctuaries nearing or exceeding their ecological capacity. It forms part of a wider strategy to establish a contiguous rhino range across Laikipia.
Jochen Zeitz, Founder of the Zeitz Foundation, added: “By giving the rhinos a new expansive home, we expect to see these numbers increase in the coming years while also benefiting surrounding communities and enhancing biodiversity conservation in Central Kenya.”
The rhinos will be monitored closely by KWS specialists during their acclimatisation period. Enhanced security and ecological monitoring systems have been put in place to safeguard wildlife and neighbouring communities. Organisers confirmed that land rights and existing boundaries will remain unaffected.
Samuel Mutisya, Head of Research and Species Conservation at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, stated: “We believe the future of black rhinos depends on strategic range expansion and collaborative conservation. This contribution to Segera aligns with our science-driven species recovery goals.”
The translocation is expected to deliver broader socio-economic benefits to the region, including local employment, training opportunities and conservation-related education.
