The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) has officially named a black rhino after Retired Chief of Defence Forces, General George Waitara, in recognition of his contribution to conservation and tourism development.
The rhino, now called “Faru Waitara,” was unveiled today at Mkomazi National Park in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region.
The ceremony was part of TANAPA’s new initiative of rhino naming, designed to strengthen the bond between communities and endangered species.
The program aims to raise awareness, reduce poaching, and inspire a sense of ownership among Tanzanians by linking iconic animals to prominent individuals.
General Waitara, who currently serves as Chairman of TANAPA’s Board of Trustees, applauded the agency for its commitment to breeding and protecting rhinos.
He noted that the animals had almost disappeared from Tanzania between the late 1970s and 1990s due to intense poaching, but conservation efforts have since restored their population.
“I commend TANAPA for standing firm in protecting this rare species and ensuring that future generations will inherit a legacy of wildlife and tourism,” he said.
Since the introduction of the rhino naming initiative, three rhinos have been named: Faru Azam, Faru Alteza, and now Faru Waitara.
The initiative complements other innovative tourism products such as rhino adoption, capturing, viewing, and tracking—all designed to give tourists memorable experiences while contributing to conservation financing.
Mkomazi National Park Chief Conservator, ACC Emmanuel Moirana, highlighted that these products help visitors feel more connected to wildlife while ensuring they gain value for money during their trips.
He said such initiatives also diversify Tanzania’s tourism portfolio, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
The event was attended by senior TANAPA officials, including Deputy Conservation Commissioner for Business Development, Massana Mwishawa, Northern Zone Commander Steria Ndaga, and several park conservators, rangers, and staff.
TANAPA views the rhino naming program as a creative way to link conservation with community engagement and tourism promotion. By associating rhinos with respected figures, the initiative builds public pride while reinforcing Tanzania’s global reputation as a leader in wildlife conservation.