Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC) and Chester Zoo have recently joined forces in a groundbreaking partnership aimed at enhancing the conservation of the critically endangered Mountain Bongo antelope and its habitat. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signifies a shared commitment to preventing the extinction of this iconic species through research, capacity transfer, and conservation education.
The collaborative efforts of MKWC and Chester Zoo will focus on various key areas, including monitoring, research, knowledge transfer, and the application of innovative technologies to support biodiversity and wildlife conservation. One notable aspect of this partnership is the utilization of real-time AI technology developed by ConservationAI at Liverpool John Moores University to monitor wild populations and enhance research capabilities.
Executive Patron of Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC), Humphrey Kariuki, emphasized the significance of this partnership in advancing the MKWC breeding and rewilding program for the Mountain Bongo. He highlighted the importance of integrating global expertise with local commitment to ensure the long-term survival of this species in the wild.
Chester Zoo’s Chief Executive Officer, Jamie Christon, echoed these sentiments and emphasized the importance of collaboration in conservation efforts. He emphasized the need for uniting resources and expertise to make a difference in protecting species on the brink of extinction, with the hope that this partnership will serve as a global model for safeguarding other endangered species in the future.
The signing ceremony was attended by Prof. Erastus Kanga, the Director General of Kenya Wildlife Services, who highlighted the importance of advancing conservation efforts through technology, research, and capacity building. The partnership with MKWC and Chester Zoo is seen as a crucial step in accelerating the reintroduction of the Mountain Bongo into the wild, with a focus on thriving wildlife populations and healthy habitats.
Looking ahead, the collaborative efforts between MKWC and Chester Zoo aim to make significant strides in Mountain Bongo conservation over the next five years, with a strong emphasis on sharing best practices and learning from each other in the field. This partnership represents a beacon of hope for the future of this critically endangered species and sets a precedent for global conservation efforts.
