Karingani Game Reserve is adding more than 4,000 animals to its wildlife population, an investment of USD 600,000. By August 2024 the Reserve had already received 1,700 animals, including impala, wildebeest, nyala and zebra, as part of a species reintroduction plan that runs to 2026.

What is arriving

• 1,700 animals received in 2024: including impala, wildebeest, nyala and zebra.
• Ostriches: Their introduction is planned. The species is rarely seen in the Reserve.
• More than 4,000 animals in total: covering a range of species, at an investment of USD 600,000.

Why it matters

The reintroductions reflect Karingani’s commitment to preserving wildlife in the Magude and Massingir regions. The plan focuses on large mammals and aims to bring populations to levels that match the Reserve’s carrying capacity, while giving visitors more wildlife to see. Most animals are going to the northern and southern zones, which have the best habitat and are the core areas for tourism development.

Because Karingani is fully fenced, its wildlife is protected and populations can grow and be managed in line with both conservation and tourism goals.

“We have a species reintroduction plan running through to 2026, focusing on large mammals and aiming to restore animal populations to optimal levels that align with the reserve’s carrying capacity. At the same time, we want to strengthen our tourism offering by increasing the visibility and diversity of wildlife that visitors can observe throughout the reserve.”

Mateus Mutemba, Executive Director, Karingani Game Reserve

Wildlife at Karingani

Karingani is home to the Big Five, along with a wide variety of antelope, birds and reptiles. Its habitat makes it an ideal environment for such a diverse range of species.

Frequently asked questions

How many animals is Karingani reintroducing?

More than 4,000 animals of various species, representing an investment of USD 600,000. By August 2024, 1,700 had arrived, including impala, wildebeest, nyala and zebra.

Which species are being added?

Impala, wildebeest, nyala and zebra are among those already received, and the introduction of ostriches, rarely seen in the Reserve, is planned.

Why is Karingani reintroducing wildlife?

To restore large-mammal populations to levels that match the Reserve’s carrying capacity, and to give visitors more wildlife to see. The plan runs to 2026.

Where in the Reserve are the animals going?

Mainly to the northern and southern zones, which offer the best habitat and are the core areas for tourism development.