In 2007, poachers killed the last Eastern black rhino in the wild at Akagera National Park.

A decade of planning later, a reintroduction effort began in 2017. The park now uses park rangers to provide around-the-clock protection and monitoring to combat the threat of poaching.

Our long relationship with Akagera National Park now extends to providing both uniforms and rations for the patrol units. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium works with the park’s community engagement staff to build conservation awareness and support in the communities in the surrounding areas.