© James Mwenda / Ol Pejeta Conservancy
When Sudan, the last male northern white rhinoceros, died last year at the age of 45, the fate of the sub-species inched one step closer towards extinction. Just 100 years ago, half a million roamed freely across Africa and Asia, but their vicious slaughter by poachers – who sell their horns for a reported $110,000 per kilogram on the black market – has nearly erased them from the earth.
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As of today, only two northern white rhinos remain: Sudan’s daughter Najin, 30, and his granddaughter Fatu, 19, both of whom are under the care of James Mwenda, a conservationist at Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
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“It takes an emotional toll and it’s a very heavy responsibility,” says Mwenda, who has been caring for the family of three since 2013. “I feel so passionately because these animals cannot talk for themselves. I developed a special bond with them over time. I appreciate the majestic, loving animals they are. They are the last of their kind. I need to be their voice and speak for them.”
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© James Mwenda / Ol Pejeta Conservancy