The Kenyan government has launched a high-tech tracking system at the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary to bolster conservation efforts for the endangered black rhino.
Led by Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, the initiative combines ear-notching and real-time surveillance to combat poaching and enhance the welfare of the rhino population.
This project, managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), will utilize advanced tracking devices to monitor the movements and health of 178 black rhinos in the Tsavo West Conservation Area.
Ngulia Wildlife Sanctuary is home to 90% of the world's remaining southern black rhinos, and Miano emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that the sanctuary has grown its rhino population from just three to over 100 in the last four decades.
“Kenya is a custodian of 90% of southern black rhinos, and conservation is an initiative that requires public participation,” said Miano.
The tracking devices, including ear-notches and VHF transmitters, will allow KWS teams to monitor each rhino's movements hourly, gathering crucial data to improve anti-poaching strategies and animal care.
KWS Director General Erastus Kanga highlighted that the technology provides a year’s worth of detailed tracking information, enabling real-time monitoring from both aerial and ground patrols.
As a symbolic gesture, the rhino tagged during the launch was named “CS Madam Miano” in honor of the dedicated Cabinet Secretary.
The initiative also includes a call for public and private sectors to adopt rhinos as part of the national “Tuza Mali yako” campaign, promoting wildlife protection.
Miano also addressed the ongoing human-wildlife conflict, stating that the government is committed to compensating affected communities.
In a recent event, President Dr. William Ruto emphasized the importance of addressing community needs and launched County Wildlife Compensation Committees to handle claims related to wildlife incidents.
“Compensation is crucial for resolving human-wildlife conflicts,” Miano remarked, highlighting the administration's focus on increasing wildlife numbers to ensure sustainability for future generations.