Welcome to the Chipembere Rhino Foundation

The Chipembere Rhino Foundation is a privately run, non-profit organization committed to assisting in the protection and conservation of Africa’s rhino.This once highly endangered species, whose total population in the early 1950's amounted to fewer than 500 animals as a result of the pressure of poaching has clawed its way back thanks to a small yet dedicated team of conservationists. These conservationist’s efforts resulted in one of Africa’s most amazing conservation success stories, that success is today evident in Africa’s approximate 20,000 white rhino.But in recent years the poaching threat has escalated to a current rate exceeding 1 rhino poached per day!Africa's rhino success is again under pressure and is now facing a threat that could take them back to the brink of extinction. For an animal that has been in existence for around 50 million years, the world would be at a great and tragic loss without this species.

The Chipembere Rhino Foundation was established in November 2010 after Amakhala Game Reserve lost two rhinos in one night to poaching. Adamant that these animals have not died in vain, we are committed to remembering them through this very foundation. 'Chipembere' means 'rhinoceros' in Shona, an African language, and this name is quite fitting in that our main breeding bull that we lost was known as 'Chippy'. The other bull, Isipho, meaning 'gift' in Xhosa, was indeed a gift to the reserve. His mother arrived and unbeknown to us was pregnant. The birth of this rhino male took us all by surprise. Isipho grew into a beautiful and proud rhino and he was slated as our future breeding bull.
These animals are sorely missed by all who had enjoyed the incredible viewing they provided along with being symbols of one of South Africa's greatest conservation success stories.

With 95% of the world's White and Black rhino population in Southern Africa, we are the custodians of this species and we have to give the rhino a future.
We need all the help we can get to help maintain their chances of survival.
Rhino conservation now has two key elements – increasing numbers and the fight against poaching. Donations received through this foundation will go directly towards the ongoing conservation and anti-poaching efforts needed for the protection of Africa's rhino populations

Your contribution is heartfelt, no matter how small. Help honour all the rhino who have befallen this terrible fate. Secure a future for rhino for your children and grandchildren.