South Africa Loses 420 Rhinos To Poaching In 2024: What’s Being Done To Stop It?

Photo by: Mike Veale / Global Conservation Force

In 2024, South Africa recorded 420 rhino poaching incidents, a decrease from 499 rhinos killed in 2023. KwaZulu-Natal remained the hardest-hit province, but losses dropped from 325 in 2023 to 232 in 2024. This decline was largely due to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Dehorning Program, which significantly reduced poaching in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

Sadly, poaching syndicates quickly adapted, targeting even dehorned rhinos. In October alone, 27 rhinos were killed in the park, forcing anti-poaching teams to respond swiftly. Their efforts ultimately led to a 67% decline in poaching over eight months.

Meanwhile, Kruger National Park saw an increase in poaching, with 88 rhinos killed in 2024 compared to 78 the previous year. A sudden spike in December saw 21 rhinos poached in a single month, continuing into January 2025. This sharp rise is deeply concerning and highlights the constant need for vigilance and stronger anti-poaching measures.

Rhino poaching remains a devastating threat to an already vulnerable species. Every rhino lost is not just a statistic—it’s a blow to conservation efforts and the future of these precious species. While progress has been made, the fight is far from over. Anti-poaching units, rangers, and conservation organizations continue to work tirelessly to protect rhinos, but they need ongoing support.

To counteract these threats, conservation teams have been ramping up their efforts to protect rhinos. Kruger National Park has intensified polygraph testing among staff to prevent corruption, which has already resulted in disciplinary action against two employees. Intelligence-sharing has also been strengthened, allowing authorities to analyze crime scenes and identify patterns linking poaching syndicates across the country.

Additionally, officials have been working closely with transit and destination countries to disrupt illegal rhino horn trafficking. In KwaZulu-Natal, the Rhino Guardianship Strategy, launched in August 2024, has played a key role in reducing poaching in the province.

Convictions for rhino poaching and trafficking are increasing, sending a strong message to criminals. However, the legal process remains slow, and many suspects released on bail continue committing crimes. Expediting these cases and opposing bail more aggressively will be critical in preventing further losses.

A major step forward came in January 2025 with the sentencing of Francis Kipampa to 18 years in prison as part of Project Blood Orange, a targeted effort to dismantle high-level poaching and trafficking networks. More investigations like this are essential to break the cycle of wildlife crime.

“We’re seeing positive movement in rhino conservation across the industry, with multiple groups and efforts making a real impact. However, the reality remains—protecting rhinos is a dynamic and truly difficult task. It’s an expensive and relentless effort, but one that goes beyond just saving a species; it safeguards entire ecosystems and the biodiversity that depends on them,” Mike Veale, Founder of Global Conservation Force, told WAN.

”Many ranger teams are still operating with basic setups, skills, and infrastructure, all while facing highly organized poaching syndicates,” continued Veale. “The need is huge, with teams having extensive wishlists for essential gear, training, and resources. Continued support is critical to ensuring long-term success.”

While the decline in poaching numbers is encouraging, there is no room for complacency. Poachers continue to adapt, and rangers remain on the frontlines, risking their lives to protect rhinos. Their work is making a difference, but they cannot do it alone. Ongoing support for anti-poaching units, stronger legal action, and international cooperation are all crucial to ensuring rhinos have a future in the wild.

The Global Conservation Force (GCF) is a dedicated team working to protect endangered wildlife through anti-poaching initiatives, ranger training, and community education. With poaching syndicates constantly evolving, GCF provides critical support to frontline conservation efforts, ensuring rangers have the resources and training needed to combat wildlife crime effectively.

To aid in safeguarding rhinos and other endangered species, consider making a donation to GCF today. Your contribution will directly empower those actively combating poaching worldwide. Whether you choose a general donation or a specific species protection initiative, 100% of your donation is dedicated entirely to the mission. DONATE HERE!

If you have information regarding wildlife crime in South Africa, please contact the environmental crime hotline at 0800 205 005 or SAPS at 10111.