17 endangered mountain bongos repatriated to Kenya

Kenya's wildlife conservation efforts have received a boost following the repatriation of 17 endangered mountain bongos to the country from the United States of America.

Kenya Wildlife Service in a notice on Monday acknowledging the move as monumental.

''Kenya has just welcomed back 17 mountain bongos from the USA, a monumental step in our conservation efforts!'' KWS stated.

''This initiative not only enhances our leadership in wildlife preservation but also aims to revive the critically endangered species, boosting their population and creating jobs while improving community livelihoods.''

The restoration process is seen as a huge win for Kenya's wildlife landscape given that the species has faced deteriorating numbers over the decades making them among some of the most endangered species in the country.

KWS said they anticipate an increase in tourist numbers and revenue.

The Tourism CS Rebecca Miano expressed optimism over the remarkable move citing it as a powerful step in Kenya's mission to restore and protect her rich biodiversity.

''We mark yet another historic moment, receiving 17 mountain bongos, a rare and treasured species, at JKIA. Their return is a powerful step in our mission to restore and protect Kenya’s rich biodiversity,'' she said.

Over the last few decades, the government has stepped up its efforts to conserve the species, currently designated among the critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The Mountain Bongo is the largest of the antelope species in the mountain region which is known for its eye-catching horns.

It is estimated that less than 100 of them remain in the wild today with the few remaining located in Mt Kenya forests, Cherangani Hills and Aberdare ranges.

In May 2024, a successful breeding programme at the Mt Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWS) that sought to up their number saw the release of ten Mountain bongos released into the wild.

The remarkable event was witnessed by First Lady Rachel Ruto who commended the important milestone in conserving the wildlife species.