South Africa recorded a 16% overall decline in rhino poaching in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

The department attributed the positive trend to sustained collaboration between government, private rhino owners and non-governmental organisations, highlighting the importance of partnerships in protecting the country’s wildlife heritage.

Speaking on the progress, Aucamp said South Africa remains committed to an intelligence-driven and partnership-based approach to conservation, aimed at strengthening long-term rhino protection and disrupting wildlife trafficking networks.

The country’s efforts have also gained international recognition. South Africa recently received the Asia Environmental Enforcement Recognition of Excellence Award for its work in combating transboundary environmental crimes.

“South Africa continues to strengthen its international collaboration to curb rhino poaching and wildlife trafficking. These efforts led to the country receiving the Asia Environmental Enforcement Recognition of Excellence Award late last year, which celebrates excellence in enforcement by government officials, institutions and teams combating transboundary environmental crimes,” said Aucamp.

The department said it would continue to prioritise coordinated action and international cooperation to ensure the downward trend in rhino poaching is sustained.