Title: The introduction of eight white rhinos to Garamba to fight against the disappearance of this threatened species
The governor of Haut-Uele province, Christophe Baseane Nangaa, announced the reintroduction of eight white rhinos in Garamba National Park, a measure aimed at preserving the species threatened with extinction due to poaching. The mining company Kibali Gold Mine (KGM) handed over these eight animals to the province, with the aim of preserving biodiversity and stimulating tourism, which can help fight poverty in the region. The other white rhinos will come from South Africa and arrive in Garamba by the end of this semester, with a total of 60 animals to be reintroduced over the next three years.
The white rhinoceros is a large land mammal belonging to the family Rhinocerotidae. It is the second largest land mammal after the elephant. All species have large heads, broad chests, short, massive legs, poor eyesight and excellent hearing. The white rhinoceros is herbivorous and feeds on grass or leaves, depending on the species. Unfortunately, these animals are particularly vulnerable to poachers, who kill rhinos to sell their horns on the black market. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) estimates that 1004 rhinos were killed in Africa in 2022, a figure that continues to rise.
The reintroduction of eight white rhinos to Garamba National Park is therefore an important measure to preserve this endangered species. The protection of these animals and their natural habitat is essential to maintain the biodiversity of the region. The reintroduction of these white rhinos will also help boost tourism and help alleviate local poverty. This is therefore encouraging news for the DRC and for all those who work to protect the wildlife of the region.