The British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney, has rallied Ugandans, corporate leaders and the international community to take part in the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s (UWA) upcoming Rhino Naming Caravan, an initiative aimed at raising funds to safeguard the country’s growing rhino population.
Speaking during a cocktail event at her residence in Kampala, which brought together diplomats, government officials, and private sector leaders, Ambassador Chesney described the campaign as a unique opportunity for Ugandans and their partners to leave a lasting mark on the country’s conservation journey.
“I was deeply moved when I visited Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and saw the success of Uganda’s rhino conservation efforts. This is a rare achievement that deserves our full support,” she said. “Through the Rhino Naming Ceremony, we can all contribute to protecting these magnificent animals for future generations.”
The Rhino Naming Caravan will culminate in a high-profile ceremony on September 22 at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where 17 calves born over the last few years will be officially named. The initiative seeks to raise at least $11 million (about UGX 40 billion) to support Uganda’s Rhino Conservation Strategy, including the expansion of rhino habitats and the eventual translocation of some animals to other reserves such as Ajai and Kidepo Valley National Park.
The campaign offers opportunities for individuals, institutions, and corporate entities to acquire naming rights for the calves or contribute in smaller ways under the “Be a Friend of a Rhino” package.
Juliana Kagwa, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer hailed the UK government in Uganda for setting pace for the rest of the development partners.
She urged Ugandans and the business community to embrace the campaign not just as a fundraising drive but as a celebration of Uganda’s conservation success story.
“My commitment is to ensure that no stakeholder remains behind in the entire drive of positioning Uganda as a preferred destination. Uganda has brought back rhinos from extinction to a thriving population of 48. That is an extraordinary accomplishment. By joining this caravan, we are helping write the next chapter of that story,” she said.
The Rhino Naming Ceremony, organised by UWA in partnership with Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and various conservation stakeholders, is expected to attract wide participation from conservationists, political leaders, business executives, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Dr. James Musinguzi, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Executive Director stated the proceedings from this initiative is aimed to fund habitat expansion, veterinary care, anti-poaching measures, community conservation programs, and the eventual reintroduction of rhinos into the wild.
The ceremony, presided over by the President, marks a milestone in the campaign to secure and grow Uganda’s rhino population following its near extinction.
