South Africa recorded a decline in rhino poaching incidents in 2024 with a total of 420 rhinos poached – 79 less than in 2023 when the total was 499.

This is according to numbers released by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, showing that KwaZulu-Natal remained the hardest-hit province with a loss of 232 rhinos in 2024. However, this figure reflects a significant reduction from the 325 recorded in 2023.

The decline has been largely attributed to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Dehorning Programme, which ran from April to October 2024 in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. The programme initially reduced poaching numbers from 35 in April to fewer than 10 per month between May and September. However, from October onwards, poachers began targeting dehorned rhinos, leading to a temporary spike in incidents.

Kruger National Park (KNP) reported 88 rhinos poached in 2024 – an increase from 78 in 2023. The park saw a sharp rise in poaching in December when 21 rhinos were killed. Another 17 were poached in January 2025, prompting concern among conservation authorities.

Efforts to combat poaching included polygraph testing for staff at KNP as part of the Integrity Management Plan. Investigations following failed tests led to disciplinary action against two ranger service employees. Authorities also increased information sharing on poaching activities with the National Environmental Enforcement Fusion Centre to identify links between different incidents across the country.