South Africa is home to nearly half of Africa’s critically endangered black rhino population and the world's largest population of white rhinos. Rhino horns, made of keratin—the same protein found in human nails and hair—are highly sought after in parts of East Asia for use in traditional medicine and jewelry.
To combat poaching, the government has introduced stricter security measures, including lie-detector tests for staff in key poaching hotspots like Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi parks.
Despite South Africa's progress, the crisis persists across the region. Neighboring Namibia reported a rise in rhino poaching last year, with cases increasing from 69 in 2023 to 83 in 2024, highlighting the continued threat to these endangered animals.
