By KT Reporter
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has started preparing the Ajai Wildlife Reserve for the much-anticipated return of the White Rhinos.
Dr. Patrick Atimnedi, the Manager Vet Doctor and Chair of the UWA Rhino Translocation Team, during a field visit on Thursday, explored the practical dimensions of rhino conservation, from habitat readiness and veterinary systems to community engagement, security infrastructure, and technology adoption.
Ajai, spanning 166 sq. km with 50 sq. km planned for fencing, is being shaped into a suitable haven for rhinos. According to Atimnedi, Habitat manipulation is actively underway, with open grazing areas and nutritious pastures already covering three square kilometres and expanding rapidly.
The Chief Warden of Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Kiiza Fredrick Kayanja, stated: “This is not just progress, it’s a promise in motion. The team is moving with unwavering focus, and I’m very positive that we’ll meet the deadline as planned. Ajai is coming alive again.”
Paul Katamegwa, the officer in charge of ground operations in Ajai, continues to lead coordination efforts with discipline and resolve. Modern tools like Earth Ranger, GPS tracking, and camera traps will also be introduced to bolster monitoring and surveillance efforts, ensuring both rhino and ranger safety.
However, in a pivotal move, contractors for roadworks, water points, fencing, and other key infrastructure were flagged off this week. signalling the official start of on-site construction and logistics operations.
According to Night Zahara, the Communications Officer of Madi Okolo district, this ambitious project stands not only as a wildlife conservation milestone but also as a national symbol of restoration. She adds that Uganda is poised to bring rhinos back to their historical range in the north, stronger, safer, and more sustainably than ever before.
It’s expected that the white Rhinos will be in the Ajai game reserve before the climax of the World Tourism Day celebrations scheduled for September 27th.
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