Launch of Mt. Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve – 28/03/2025

A Historic Milestone: The Successful Launch of Mt. Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve.

On the 28th of March 2025, at the heart of Suam, Trans Nzoia County, history was made with the successful launch of the Mt. Elgon Transboundary Reserve. This monumental event marked the beginning of a new era in conservation efforts between Kenya and Uganda, strengthening the cooperation between the two nations in managing and preserving one of East Africa’s most treasured ecosystems.

The launch was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including PS Museiya (Wildlife Kenya), PS Mugambi (Forestry Kenya), PS Doreen (Tourism and Wildlife Uganda), Ambassador Joash Maangi (High Commission of Kenya to Uganda), Madam Louise, Executive Director UNESCO (East Africa), as well as senior government officials from both Kenya and Uganda. The event was further enriched by the enthusiastic participation of the great people of Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya, and Bukwo District, Uganda, who stand to benefit the most from this conservation effort.

The highlight of the launch was the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations, laying the groundwork for a coordinated approach to managing the Mt. Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve. This agreement underscores the commitment of both countries to safeguard the biodiversity and ecological integrity of Mt. Elgon while fostering sustainable development for the communities surrounding the reserve.

Mt. Elgon, an ancient extinct volcano, is recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and ecological significance. It serves as a critical water catchment for major rivers such as the Nzoia and Turkwel, playing a crucial role in maintaining regional hydrological balance. Additionally, the mountain’s diverse habitats support a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, primates, and numerous bird species.

The biosphere reserve status, designated under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme, aims to promote a balanced relationship between nature conservation and sustainable human activities. By integrating ecological protection with responsible economic development, the reserve seeks to enhance biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and local community livelihoods.

Despite its immense ecological value, the Mt. Elgon Biosphere Reserve faces several challenges, including illegal logging, human encroachment, and human-wildlife conflicts. The launch of the transboundary biosphere reserve represents a strategic move to address these issues through joint management efforts, improved law enforcement, and community involvement.

Moreover, the event highlighted numerous opportunities to promote a wildlife-based economy in the region. Some key initiatives discussed included:

Enhancing tourism infrastructure, including accommodations and road networks, to attract more visitors to the western circuit.
Promoting cultural and nature-based tourism, particularly mountain hiking and adventure tourism.
Supporting community-led initiatives such as beekeeping and eco-friendly enterprises to generate sustainable livelihoods.
Strengthening conservation efforts by curbing illegal activities through a joint framework between Kenya and Uganda.

With the launch of the Mt. Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, a new chapter has begun in the journey towards sustainable conservation and regional cooperation. The successful implementation of the MoU and subsequent conservation initiatives like the water tanks donated by the State Department for Wildlife to a number of Local Primary Schools in the area will require continued commitment from both governments, stakeholders, and the local communities.

As we move forward, the focus remains on ensuring that Mt. Elgon continues to thrive as a beacon of biodiversity conservation, a hub for scientific research, and a source of sustainable economic growth for the surrounding communities. The collaborative spirit displayed during the launch serves as a testament to what can be achieved when nations unite for the greater good of nature and humanity.

This landmark event will be remembered as a defining moment in transboundary conservation efforts, setting a precedent for future collaborative conservation projects across Africa and beyond.

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