More about the Specialist Group

The African Rhino Specialist Group is one of the more than 140 Specialist Groups (SGs) of the IUCN’s Species Survival Commission (SSC). The largely volunteer – based network of experts across disciplines represents and works on behalf of the SSC to further rhino conservation in Africa. The AfRSG’s work covers all African rhino range States: Botswana, Chad, DR Congo, Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia & Zimbabwe; & works with state, provincial, community, municipal & private sector rhino conservation programs.

1. To establish and enhance healthy and persistent rhino populations through advising and facilitating the efficient protection and dynamic biological management of African rhinos within their natural range
2. To foster multiple values of rhinos for all peoples’ well-being through promoting sustainable conservation
3. To facilitate research, collate information and report on the status of African rhinos to the IUCN and other parties
4. To support targeted communication to a wide range of stakeholders
5. To ensure effective leadership through the capacity building and mentorship of the next generation of rhino conservationists
6. To promote sustainable finance and good governance for African rhino conservation
7. To manage, monitor and evaluate the Group via effective, efficient, and transparent governance