South African conservation authorities have reported a remarkable 30% increase in the country’s rhino population over the past five years, attributing the success to intensified anti-poaching operations and community partnership programs.
The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries released data showing that rhino numbers have grown from approximately 18,000 in 2020 to over 23,000 in 2025, reversing a decade-long decline driven by poaching for illegal horn trade.
Minister Barbara Mokoena praised the collaborative approach:
“By involving local communities in conservation efforts and strengthening law enforcement, we have created a safer environment for these magnificent animals.”
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Programs providing alternative livelihoods for communities living near parks, combined with advanced surveillance technologies such as drones and AI monitoring, have been instrumental.
International wildlife organizations have applauded South Africa’s progress, calling it a global conservation model. Efforts continue as challenges remain, but the outlook is cautiously optimistic.
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