The Isiolo County Government has formally requested approval from the national government to reintroduce rhinos into its game reserves, four decades after the species disappeared from the region due to rampant poaching and insecurity.
Speaking during World Rhino Day celebrations, Silvia Museiya Kihoro, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Wildlife, confirmed that Isiolo is being considered as a potential habitat under the National Rhino Strategy. She emphasized that security will be the most critical factor in determining suitable sites, given the endangered status of rhinos.
Neighboring counties—including Meru, Laikipia, and Samburu—already host thriving rhino sanctuaries, making Isiolo a strategic candidate for reintroduction. Museiya added that bringing back rhinos would not only strengthen conservation but also enhance tourism, security, and economic opportunities for local communities. She further assured residents awaiting compensation for human–wildlife conflict that the government is expediting payments.
Isiolo’s County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Dr. Lawrence Mwongela, noted that the loss of rhinos decades ago harmed both biodiversity and community livelihoods. He stressed that their return would revitalize local tourism, create new jobs, and complement Isiolo’s rich cultural tourism offerings.
The county has pledged close collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and conservation partners to ensure the success of the initiative, with Bisanadi Game Reserve identified as the primary site. Isiolo is home to three reserves: Shaba, Buffalo Springs, and Bisanadi, positioning it as a key conservation and tourism hub in northern Kenya.
