British High Commissioner visits Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Name and Save a Rhino Campaign
Ms. Julian Kaggwa, Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), H. E. Lisa Chesney British High Commissioner (in the middle) ,Dr. James Musinguzi UWA Executive Director
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has received the British High Commissioner to Uganda, H. E. Lisa Chesney, at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary as part of preparations for the inaugural Name and Save a Rhino ceremony, scheduled for September 22, 2025.
The visit brought together conservation and tourism leaders, including Dr. James Musinguzi, Executive Director of UWA, Ms. Julian Kaggwa, Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Mr. Joseph Roy, owner of Ziwa Ranches and Rhino Sanctuary and senior officials from both UWA and UTB.
The High Commissioner joined rangers for a rhino tracking session at the sanctuary, where she came face-to-face with the majestic animals, an experience she described as rare and moving, highlighting the importance of conservation.
“Uganda is the most beautiful country I have ever seen, ranking among the top ten most biodiverse nations in the world. Its hospitable and friendly people make it even more special. I am deeply impressed by Uganda’s remarkable conservation efforts, which have brought rhinos back from extinction to 48 individuals. I look forward to attending the Rhino naming ceremony and will mobilise fellow diplomats to join me in this cause. I call on people everywhere, especially the global community, to come to Uganda, name a rhino, and experience the incredible beauty of the Pearl of Africa,” she said.
Dr. Musinguzi reaffirmed Uganda’s determination to secure the future of rhinos through innovative fundraising and strategic species management.
Every name bestowed on a rhino will directly contribute to securing the future of this iconic species. Uganda is taking rhino conservation forward in earnest. We are preparing to translocate 20 rhinos from Ziwa to Ajai Wildlife Reserve and will soon receive more rhinos to be introduced into Kidepo Valley National Park.
“We need US$11million, through the name and save a rhino campaign for these plans, but those who may not be able to raise the funds required to have naming rights can still befriend a rhino or support the campaign by contributing any amount within their means towards the cause,” Musinguzi asserted.
Ms. Julian Kaggwa, Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board, noted that Uganda’s wildlife offering is unmatched, being home to the Big Five plus two; rhinos and mountain gorillas, making the country one of the few destinations with the Big Seven.
The Name and Save a Rhino conservation campaign is also a tourism innovation that sets Uganda apart, allowing visitors and conservation friends to witness our wildlife and actively participate in its protection. The experience blends conservation with tourism, strengthening Uganda’s brand as a destination where every visit contributes to preserving nature for generations to come.
