By Lake Zone Watch Writer
The Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS) and Grumeti Fund have won praise from the government for their concerted efforts in the conservation of rhinos in the Serengeti ecosystem for the benefit of future generations.
FZS, which together with the Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) work together to co-implement the Serengeti Ecosystem Development and Conservation project, is the first institution to bring into the country rhinos from South Africa.
The National Coordinator of the Rhino Project, Mr Philibert Ngoti, said yesterday during celebrations to mark the World Rhino Day at Fort Ikoma area in Western Serengeti that both FZS and Grumeti Fund have played a key role in the conservation of the rhinos roaming the Serengeti ecosystem.
The short-horned and muscular rhinos are a majestic small population of animals threatened with extinction because of the demand of their horns in the international market.
“I commend FZS and Grumeti Fund for their tireless efforts in supporting the conservation of rhinos in the country. Grumeti Fund brought in nine rhinos at a cost of seven million US dollars, “ Mr Ngoti said.
On his part, FZS Programme Manager, Mr Masegeri Rurai, said his organization would continue to work with the Tanzanian government through TANAPA in enhancing the protection of rhinos in their natural habitat for the benefit of generations.
With its headquarters in Germany, FZS is an international conservation organization which has been supporting the government of Tanzania on wildlife conservation matters by ensuring that the Serengeti ecology remains intact, as well as improving the lives of local communities.