The Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC) celebrated a significant milestone on Tuesday 7th May 2024 as they released ten adult Mountain Bongos into the Mawingu Mountain Bongo Sanctuary. This sanctuary, spanning 776 acres, is nestled within the slopes of Mount Kenya, providing a haven for these endangered creatures. The release event, honored by the presence of Her Excellency, Mrs. Rachel Ruto, the First Lady of Kenya, marks a crucial step in MKWC’s 20-year-long efforts to breed and rewild Mountain Bongos.
Established in 2022 through collaboration between the Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, and MKWC, the Mawingu Sanctuary is a vital refuge for the Mountain Bongo antelope. Within its first year, ten Mountain Bongos were translocated into the sanctuary.
Since then, four births have been recorded, proving that these antelope species have settled well into their new wild home. The sanctuary aims to support the rewilding of these majestic creatures, with a bold target of reintroducing 750 Mountain Bongos into their natural habitat within the next 50 years, as outlined in the Mountain Bongo National Recovery and Action Plan launched in 2019.
The release event is a significant achievement for MKWC, which has dedicated two decades to nurturing and repatriating Mountain Bongos from various zoos in North America. The successful settlement of these creatures in their new home sheds light on the effectiveness of MKWC’s breeding and rewilding program.
H.E. Mrs. Rachel Ruto commended the conservation efforts, affirming that this reintroduction of the Mountain Bongos is a significant moment in Kenya’s efforts in wildlife conservation. Humphrey Kariuki, the Patron of MKWC and Founder of Janus Continental Group, emphasized the profound impact of conservation on future generations.
Through his steadfast support, Kariuki has played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Mawingu Sanctuary and the rewilding initiative. Dr. Robert Aruho, Head of Conservancy at MKWC, expressed his delight at witnessing the Mountain Bongos return to their natural habitat, stressing the cultural significance of these creatures, and urging collective action to prevent their extinction.
Dr. Alfred Mutua, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife emphasized the impact of the holistic approach adopted by the government to support wildlife conservation, stating that wildlife conservation is a critical issue that demands attention and action from all sectors of society. MKWC’s Mountain Bongo Breeding and Rewilding Program showcases a deep recognition of shared responsibility to protect and nurture the world. Dr Erustus Kanga, Director-General of the Kenya Wildlife Service also highlighted the efforts that the KWS has made in collaboration with MKWC.
For 20 years, MKWC’s approach has combined scientific research, habitat restoration, and community involvement, ensuring that conservation benefits both wildlife and people. The successful release of Mountain Bongos at Mawingu Sanctuary highlights the possibilities available when stakeholders harness collective will and resources towards a common goal. With support from government agencies, international organizations, and local communities, MKWC continues to lead the charge in preserving Kenya’s natural heritage.
Education and community involvement are integral components of MKWC’s conservation strategy. By engaging local communities and empowering youth through education programs, MKWC aims to instill a culture of environmental stewardship for generations to come to ensure the long-term protection of Kenya’s natural heritage.
Through partnerships from organizations like the Janus Continental Group, MKWC remains dedicated to rewilding the Mountain Bongo and ensuring a sustainable future for wildlife conservation.
