Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC) heralded a defining moment in conservation, announcing the birth of its 100th Mountain Bongo calf, a gentle giant teetering on the edge of extinction.
This milestone signals a powerful resurgence for one of Kenya’s most iconic and critically endangered species. Through MKWC’s Breeding and Rewilding Programme, the 100th calf stands as a living testament to resilience, rekindling hope for the survival and restoration of this rare, copper-coated antelope once feared to be fading into silence.
“The work undertaken by Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy is highly commendable and represents a significant step forward for wildlife conservation in Kenya,” said Kenya Wildlife Service director general, Prof. Erastus Kanga.
“The birth of the 100th mountain bongo reflects more than 20 years of dedication by conservation teams, researchers, veterinarians, and wildlife managers whose efforts in research, monitoring, and breeding have been critical to the recovery of this critically endangered species.”
“Kenya Wildlife Service reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the conservancy on the mountain bongo breeding and rewilding programme and to advancing species recovery efforts across the country. I also wish to acknowledge Humphrey Kariuki for his continued leadership and investment in this important conservation initiative,” added Prof. Kanga.
The mountain bongo, distinguished by its striking chestnut coat and spiralled horns, was once common across the Mount Kenya ecosystem. Decades of habitat loss and poaching have pushed the species to the brink of extinction.
In response, Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, in partnership with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), has remained steadfast in its mission to prevent the total loss of this iconic species.
“This milestone reflects decades of coordinated breeding, habitat restoration, and community engagement that have been critical to stabilizing the species. At MKWC, we look forward to continuing this journey, expanding our research and efforts to reintroduce a healthy, self-sustaining population into the wild, and ensuring that the mountain bongo is no longer endangered,” said Humphrey Kariuki, patron of Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy and IUCN Patron of Nature.
“Protecting this iconic species is our dedicated commitment to safeguard Kenya’s unique biodiversity and preserve a vital part of the country’s natural heritage for future generations,” stated Mr Kariuki.
The journey to the 100th birth began in 2004 with the repatriation of 18 mountain bongos from the United States to Nanyuki. These animals became the founding population of the Mountain Bongo Breeding and Rewilding Programme.
In 2022, the conservancy reached another major milestone with the opening of the Mawingu Mountain Bongo Sanctuary; the world’s first dedicated wild sanctuary for the species.
The sanctuary provides a safe, natural habitat where Bongos can continue their re-wilding process in preparation for reintroduction into their historic ranges in Mount Kenya, Eburu and the Aberdares.
“Reaching this milestone is both a celebration and a challenge. It provides both the momentum and the confidence to continue our work to ensure the survival of this species,” stated head of conservancy at MKWC, Dr. Robert Aruho.
“This achievement reflects years of dedication, collaboration, and commitment to restoring wildlife populations and preserving Mount Kenya’s unique biodiversity,” added Dr. Aruho.
To date, MKWC has successfully bred 100 mountain bongos through this programme and continues to lead efforts to re-establish a self-sustaining wild population, safeguarding Kenya’s unique wildlife heritage for generations to come.
Operating under the patronage of Humphrey Kariuki, the conservancy integrates species recovery with community empowerment and education.
Through rescue and rehabilitation centre visits, adoption programmes, habitat restoration and community conservation education, individuals and organisations can contribute directly to the survival of the mountain bongo and the ecological health of the Mount Kenya forest.
Over 30,000 students participate in MKWC’s education and empowerment programmes annually, fostering awareness of biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource management.
This milestone has been made possible through strong partnerships with Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service, as well as technical collaboration with Chester Zoo, EAZA, and IUCN.
Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy also acknowledges the support of corporate partners including Janus Continental Group, Dalbit Petroleum, Kenya Pipeline Company, and I&M Bank, alongside the vital contributions of individual donors and foundations.
