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Rhino poaching remains a critical threat in South Africa, as over 100 rhinos were killed in the first three months of 2024. Environment Minister Dion George reported that 65 of these rhinos were poached within national parks, a concerning statistic that underscores the vulnerability of these endangered animals even in protected areas. This alarming rate, averaging more than one rhino killed per day, mirrors last year’s figures.
South Africa is home to the world’s largest rhino population, estimated between 16,000 and 18,000. The critically endangered black rhino, with only about 6,400 remaining worldwide, is particularly vulnerable. Approximately 2,000 black rhinos reside in South Africa.
The illegal trade of rhino horn fuels this poaching crisis. Driven by demand in Asian markets, particularly Vietnam and China, organized criminal syndicates profit from this illicit trade. Over the past decade, nearly 10,000 rhinos have been poached across Africa.
South African authorities are actively combating these criminal networks. Last year, a significant victory was achieved with the conviction of a Mozambican poaching “kingpin,” Simon Ernesto Valoi, who received a 27-year prison sentence for orchestrating rhino poaching operations in Kruger National Park.