Nairobi-From left: Wildlife Research and Training Institute Board Chair Dr. David Nkendiaye, President William Ruto, Wildlife Research and Training Institute CEO Dr. Patrick Omondi, and Tourism & Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano during the launch of the National Wildlife Census 2025 results at the KICC, Nairobi.
Kenya has reaffirmed its position as a continental conservation powerhouse after the release of the National Wildlife Census 2025, which shows the country now hosts 2,102 rhinos—a 4% increase since 2021 and the largest rhino population in Africa.
The landmark report, released by the Wildlife Research and Training Institute and launched by President William Ruto, marks a significant victory for Kenya’s conservation agenda and strengthens its status as a top-tier global tourism destination.
The census recorded notable growth in both black and white rhino populations, a trend attributed to the Wildlife Act 2013, enhanced anti-poaching efforts, strengthened wildlife security, and deeper engagement with local communities.
Flagship conservation areas including Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Nairobi National Park, and Tsavo were credited for their critical role in protecting and breeding endangered species.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano said the new figures reinforce Kenya’s leadership on the world conservation stage.
“This achievement underscores the success of our collaborative approach with rangers, communities, and conservation partners. Kenya is now not only a sanctuary for rhinos but also a leading destination for nature and adventure lovers,”
said Hon. Miano.
President William Ruto commended conservation and tourism stakeholders for contributing to a rise of 3.26 million new tourist arrivals, noting that the tourism sector remains central to his administration’s economic agenda.
“Our Jamhuri Day celebrations will highlight the importance of tourism and wildlife. We shall also unveil a powerful new national brand—Magical Kenya: The Origin of Wonder—to reposition our country as a nexus of creativity, innovation, culture, sports, adventure, heritage, cuisine, and human excellence,”
President Ruto announced.
Beyond rhinos, elephant populations also recorded a 3.99% increase since 2021. The census praised Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings—from the Maasai Mara’s iconic wildebeest migration and its pristine coastline to vibrant cultural heritage and Nairobi’s status as Africa’s safari capital.
Wildlife Research and Training Institute CEO Dr. Patrick Omondi lauded government funding for the census—which began in 2024 and concluded in August 2025—noting that the data will guide strategic investment.
“We are happy to have launched the report. It now awaits tabling in Parliament so that resources can be allocated in accordance with the data,”
said Dr. Omondi.
He added that mitigation systems are already in place to support species showing population declines.
Stakeholders in the tourism industry celebrated the census results, saying the findings strengthen Kenya’s brand in the fiercely competitive global tourism market. They expressed confidence that the positive trends will attract more visitors, create jobs, and bolster local economies.
The government has pledged to continue expanding conservation programs and upgrading tourism infrastructure. With the new census solidifying Kenya’s lead in wildlife protection, the nation is expected to leverage the momentum to fully establish itself as Africa’s premier destination for wildlife, adventure, and sustainable tourism.