The future of rhinos—a mix of hope and deep concern

Money matters: the economic engine of conservation

Rhino conservation is costly but invaluable. Well-managed populations anchor nature-based tourism, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.

Between 2022 and 2024, 276 live rhinos were traded legally, primarily for conservation translocations. A small number of trophy hunts occurred under tightly regulated quotas, generating revenue for community development and anti-poaching operations.

Innovative finance mechanisms are reshaping conservation funding. The World Bank's Wildlife Conservation Bond ("Rhino Bond") mobilised over US$150 million for black rhino conservation in South Africa-linking investor returns to population growth. It's a promising model for future conservation finance.

The new African Rhino Conservation Framework (2025-2035) marks a shift from fortress conservation to inclusive, community-centred management. This approach recognises that Indigenous peoples and local communities are essential partners in protecting rhinos and their habitats.

At its core, IFAW's Room to Roam embodies this philosophy. We work with people closest to wildlife to co-design solutions that support coexistence, improve livelihoods, and secure connected landscapes where rhinos-and communities-can thrive.

From Africa's community conservancies to India's floodplains and Indonesia's forests, one lesson is clear: when conservation brings tangible benefits to people, wildlife has room to roam and a reason to stay.

Rhinos have survived dramatic environmental shifts for more than 50 million years. With continued commitment, collaboration, and creativity, they can endure far into the future.