South Africa recorded a 16/percent drop in rhino poaching last year, with 420 rhinos killed compared to 499 the previous year, the government announced on Thursday. While this shows progress, officials remain concerned about rising poaching in Kruger National Park, one of the country’s most well-known wildlife reserves.
South Africa is home to nearly half of Africa’s critically endangered black rhinos and the world’s largest population of near-threatened white rhinos. Despite conservation efforts, poachers continue to target them for their horns, which are highly valued in some East Asian countries for traditional medicine and luxury products. These horns are made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails. Though they have no proven medical benefits, their illegal trade continues.
Environment Minister Dion George said 320 of the 420 rhinos poached last year were killed on state-owned land, while 100 were taken from private parks, reserves, and farms. He credited the decline to a dehorning program in KwaZulu-Natal, the most affected province. Dehorning removes a rhino’s horn to make it less appealing to poachers. However, despite these efforts, poaching in Kruger National Park increased. The park recorded 88 poaching incidents last year, up from 78 in 2023. Its vast, remote landscape makes it difficult to protect rhinos.
To combat poaching, the government has strengthened security measures. One initiative involves polygraph tests for staff in high-risk areas such as Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi parks. Officials believe insider involvement has enabled poaching, so these measures aim to reduce corruption and improve protection.
Meanwhile, Namibia reported an increase in poaching cases. The country recorded 83 incidents last year, up from 69 in 2023. Conservationists warn that despite South Africa’s progress, the demand for rhino horns continues to drive poaching across the region. Experts call for stronger regional cooperation, more funding for conservation, and stricter law enforcement to protect Africa’s rhino population.