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People losing their lives for this rhino
In addition to the historical pressure from demand for rhino horn dagger handles in Yemen, all rhino species are threatened by demand for rhino derivatives used in medicinal products in eastern Asia. Lawlesness in the eastern part of the DRC has led to widespread attacks on Garamba National Park's infrastructure, with loss of equipment and defection of staff. The site is now back on the List of World Heritage in Danger.
The key priority is to secure the survival of the remaining animals, while also implementing the emergency conservation strategy for the northern white rhino.A workshop funded by the International Rhino Foundation was held in July 2004 to bring stakeholder organisations together and pledge funds for a year's emergency strategy. Increased support is required for the guard force in the field and appropriate diplomatic initiatives to ensure that peace returns to the region.
Poaching
The northern white rhino is being killed by heavily-armed poaching gangs, including from neighbouring Sudan. While park guards are struggling to protect the sub-species, they are risking their lives in the process and several have been killed in anti-poaching operations.