Kenya has received four critically endangered Mountain Bongos in a significant boost to ongoing conservation efforts, as the government moves to strengthen the species’ population through targeted breeding and restoration programmes.

The Four male Mountain Bongos arrived Tuesday night at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) via a KLM cargo flight from the Czech Republic, where they were part of a specialised international breeding programme.

They were received by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Environment CS Rebecca Miano, alongside Kenya Wildlife Service Director General Erustus Kanga and Czech Ambassador Nicol Adamcova.

The animals have since been transferred to Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, which now hosts up to 102 bongos. Their addition is expected to significantly strengthen the species’ genetic diversity, a critical factor in ensuring long-term survival.

Speaking during the reception, CS Rebecca Miano emphasized that bringing in genetically diverse bongos is a critical step in strengthening breeding resilience.

Describing the animals as “a truly prized heritage,” Miano noted that their transfer reflects the value of coordinated global conservation efforts.

“Wildlife conservation calls for partnerships that bring together government, communities and private sector players,” she said.

“More than 70 per cent of Kenya’s tourism attractions are wildlife-driven, yet over 65 per cent of wildlife exists outside protected areas. Collaboration is therefore essential.”

Mudavadi on the other hand highlighted that the translocation of the bongos show what can be achieved when policy, science, and collaboration come together in pursuit of a shared conservation goal.

According to Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the country is now one step closer to restoring Mountain BongoS to their natural habitat, where they belong, after years of decline caused by poaching, disease and habitat loss.