The Ministry of Environment has reported a disturbing rise in rhino poaching, with 28 animals killed since the beginning of 2024.This surge is particularly concerning as 19 of these deaths occurred within Etosha National Park, a renowned tourist destination and critical rhino sanctuary.
The high number in Etosha raises concerns about the effectiveness of current protection measures. Notably, 10 of the 19 rhinos were discovered during dehorning operations, a strategy aimed at deterring poachers by removing the horns, a target in the illegal wildlife trade fueled by Asian demand.
Recognizing the park’s significance for rhino conservation, the Ministry vows to conduct a swift assessment to strengthen anti-poaching efforts within Etosha.
This rise in poaching is a worrying trend. In 2022 alone, Namibia saw 87 rhinos killed, a significant increase compared to 45 in 2021 (data for 2023 is not yet available).
Neighboring South Africa, with the world’s largest rhino population, also faces a poaching crisis. Despite government interventions, nearly 500 rhinos were slaughtered there in 2023. With an estimated 23,300 rhinos remaining in Africa at the end of 2022, primarily concentrated in South Africa, the urgency to combat poaching is undeniable.
With AFP abj/APA