Ngulia,Taita Taveta— President William Ruto has officially launched the expanded Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary, now the largest rhino protection zone in the world.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in Ngulia, Taita Taveta County, marking a historic moment for Kenya’s conservation sector.
The sanctuary’s transformation is remarkable. What began 40 years ago as a modest three–square kilometre enclosure holding just three rhinos has now grown into a sprawling 3,200-square kilometre protected landscape.
The expansion secures a thriving population of more than 200 rhinos and strengthens Kenya’s place as a global leader in wildlife conservation.
“This sanctuary is a national and global treasure,” President Ruto said. He noted that the ecosystem will serve not only as a conservation stronghold but also as a major draw for tourists seeking to witness Kenya’s endangered species in their natural habitat.
The President emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting rhinos and other vulnerable wildlife.
He said more rangers would be deployed and surveillance strengthened through long-range aerial monitoring.
“We will keep deploying more protectors on the ground, and wider and longer-range eyes in our skies to safeguard our endangered species,” he said.
The Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary is expected to boost scientific research, enhance security for black rhinos, and deepen partnerships between the government, conservationists, and local communities.
