By David Mwanje
Uganda is rolling out the red carpet for its rhinos this September at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni headlining the country’s first-ever Rhino Naming Ceremony. This exciting event kicks off a massive $11 million (UGX 40 billion) “Name A Rhino” campaign to boost Uganda’s rhino population over the next five years.
The big news broke at a lively breakfast meeting in Kampala, packed with government officials, business leaders, and wildlife experts. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), working with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, is driving this bold plan. It’s calling on everyone—locals, companies, and global supporters—to name one of 17 cute rhino calves or young rhinos. All money raised will help protect rhinos by expanding their habitats, funding vet care, stopping poachers, and supporting local communities.
“Uganda’s rhinos were gone from the wild in the 1980s, but now we have 48, with 46 at Ziwa,” said Dr. James Musinguzi, UWA’s head. “Naming a rhino lets you join this incredible comeback story”
Rhinos are a big deal for Uganda’s economy, not just its wildlife. Since 2006, when six Southern White Rhinos arrived at Ziwa, 40 babies have been born. Now, Uganda plans to move some rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve in West Nile by the end of the year, bringing tourists and jobs to the region.
“This is a proud moment for Uganda,” said Martin Mugarra Bahenduka, the Tourism Minister. “Rhinos draw visitors, and moving them to Ajai will put West Nile on the tourism map, creating jobs and opportunities.”
The Rhino Naming Ceremony, led by President Museveni, is Uganda’s chance to show the world it’s serious about saving wildlife and growing tourism. “Our animals make Uganda unique,” said UTB chief Juliana Kagwa. “This campaign proves we’re committed to protecting them and keeping Uganda a top safari destination.”
Under Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy (2018–2028), the goal is to grow the rhino population by 5% each year with better security, breeding programs, and safer habitats. A special team is working to ensure the rhinos’ move to Ajai is smooth and keeps them healthy.
Businesses can get involved by supporting the cause, tying their name to something meaningful. The funds pay for rangers, local schools, and bigger, safer spaces for rhinos. “Saving rhinos means saving jobs and building a better future for Ugandans,” Dr. Musinguzi said.
With President Museveni at the helm, this ceremony is a global call for everyone Ugandans, companies, and wildlife fans to join the mission to save rhinos. It’s a chance to make history and keep Uganda’s rhinos thriving.
If you want to name a rhino or help out? Contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority or visit their official pages
