Zimbabwe Rhino’s Eyesight Saved in Conservation Effort. Harare, Zimbabwe — 2026-02-19 Lead Paragraph A southern white rhino named Thuza in Zimbabwe has been saved from losing his eyesight due to an innovative collaboration between Imvelo Safari Lodges and international conservationists. Thuza, part of a conservation initiative to reintroduce rhinos to land around Hwange National Park, was suffering from an eye infection.
The intervention, a joint effort between local anti — poacher scouts and experts from the Palm Beach Zoo in Florida, has successfully treated the infection, saving Thuza’s eyesight. Imvelo Safari Lodges’managing director, Mark Butcher, noticed the problem and was concerned that it could be used as a pretext by critics to halt the conservation project.
In response, the lodge reached out to the Palm Beach Zoo for assistance.
Angi Lacinak, a founder of Precision Behaviour, traveled to Zimbabwe to help. She emphasized the importance of preserving the rhinos’eyesight, considering the small population in the region.
The treatment involved using Thuza’s favorite food to lure him into a confined space, where he was desensitized to human contact.
This method allowed the team to administer the necessary medications. Lacinak expressed confidence in the successful outcome, noting that the rhinos are now thriving under the care of the local community.
Southern white rhinos are classified as near threatened, with poaching remaining a significant threat.
The conservation effort, which involves the local community as custodians, is crucial for the survival of this species.
The successful treatment of Thuza’s eye infection is a significant achievement for the conservationists involved. While challenges remain for the species in the wild, this intervention demonstrates the potential of international cooperation in wildlife conservation.
Further details about the ongoing conservation efforts and the status of Thuza are expected to be released in the coming days.
