Nairobi: Kenya’s efforts to conserve and increase the population of the endangered mountain bongo have received a major boost following the repatriation of four young male bongos from Europe. Of the four, one originated from the Czech Republic, two from Germany, and one from Denmark.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kenya Wildlife Service Director General Dr. Erastus Kanga stated that the animals were brought back to strengthen the genetic diversity of the existing population of 102 mountain bongos at the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, while officially receiving the animals at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, described the repatriation as a milestone in Kenya’s conservation journey.
Mudavadi noted that with approximately 100 mountain bongos remaining in the wild, the country faces both a challenge and a responsibility. He highlighted that the decline of the mountain bongo population is a reflection of broader environmental issues, as the species was once thriving across montane forests from the Aberdares to Mount Kenya, the Mau, and Eburu.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary emphasized that the government remains committed to conservation, guided by national policies and legislative frameworks, particularly the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act of 2013. This act serves as a foundation for species protection, habitat restoration, and biodiversity management.
Mudavadi also pointed out that the Mountain Bongo Recovery Programme aligns with Kenya’s national biodiversity strategies, climate action commitments, and the global Sustainable Development Goals. He stressed the importance of collaboration between government, conservation institutions like the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, and international partners as a model for conservation success.
He reiterated that conservation requires unity across borders, institutions, and communities, stating that species recovery is a strategic national priority that impacts environmental security, the tourism economy, and intergenerational responsibility.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed Kenya’s position as a global leader in wildlife conservation, expressing confidence that species recovery is achievable through sound policy, strategic partnerships, and sustained commitment. He commended all stakeholders involved and assured them of the government’s support in strengthening conservation frameworks.
At the same event, Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy founder and patron Humphrey Kariuki explained that the decision to import the four bongos was aimed at improving the genetic diversity of the existing population. He noted that breeding within a limited gene pool weakens the animals, and introducing new genetics can ensure their long-term survival. The animals will undergo a one-month quarantine period before release to ensure they are disease-free and properly acclimatized.
Mudavadi was accompanied by Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano and Czech Republic Ambassador to Kenya, Ms. Nicol Adamcov¡. The Ambassador reaffirmed her country’s strong partnership with Kenya in biodiversity conservation, mentioning the Czech President’s support for the transfer of mountain bongos to Kenya.
