A new high-tech tracking system has been introduced at Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary to support the conservation of endangered black rhinos.
black rhino conservation Kenya
Kenya launches high-tech tracking for black rhinos
The initiative, launched by Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, combines ear-notching and real-time surveillance to deter poaching and improve care for the rhinos. Managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the program uses 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 Southern black rhinos, and the rhino population in the sanctuary has grown from just three to over 100 in the past 40 years.
“Kenya is a custodian of 90 per cent of Southern black rhinos; 90 per cent of those in the world are found in Kenya. We need Kenyans to understand this heritage, see the efforts being made, and participate in conservation actively,” remarked CS Miano, underlining Kenya’s dedication to wildlife preservation.
The system includes ear-notches, VHF transmitters, and long-range devices that transmit location data hourly. These tools enable aerial and ground teams to monitor the animals and collect data for anti-poaching strategies and improved animal welfare. “We used earmarks and added a number, which was 130. We also installed VHF transmitters to locate the animals during flights,” explained KWS Director General Erastus Kanga. “Long-range network devices additionally provide hourly updates on the animal’s location and condition, allowing us to gather valuable information.” The initiative cost Ksh. 4 million and is supported by KWS and its partners. During the launch, a rhino was named “CS Madam Miano” to honour the Cabinet Secretary, who adopted the animal. This aligns with the national “Tunza Mali Yako” campaign, which encourages Kenyans to adopt and support wildlife conservation. “We are calling on executives to adopt the critically endangered animals we are protecting so we can collectively preserve this heritage,” said KWS Director General Erastus Kanga, encouraging public and private sectors to join the effort. CS Miano acknowledged the contributions of communities in caring for wildlife and addressed the challenge of human-wildlife conflict. She emphasized the government’s commitment to compensating affected communities while integrating conservation efforts into Kenya’s broader wildlife economy, a key element of the tourism sector.