Kenya-Uganda ink deal to protect Mt. Elgon transboundary biosphere reserve

Kenya and Uganda have solidified their commitment to regional conservation efforts with the launch of the Mount Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (TBR) and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to guide its joint management.

The event, held in Suam, Kenya, brought together senior government officials from both nations, conservation stakeholders, and local communities.

Mount Elgon, spanning 74,000 hectares of gazetted forest, is a critical water tower and a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot.

It feeds three major rivers Nzoia, Turkwel, and Malakisi which provide essential water resources to millions across Kenya and Uganda. The newly signed MoU establishes a framework for coordinated conservation efforts, promoting sustainable natural resource management, climate resilience, and community engagement.

Speaking at the event, Forestry Principal Secretary, Gitonga Mugambi, underscored the urgent need to protect the Mount Elgon ecosystem against threats such as deforestation, human-wildlife conflict, climate change, and population pressure.

“While we celebrate this milestone, we must also acknowledge the challenges that continue to threaten Mount Elgon’s ecological integrity. Illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, and charcoal production are causing alarming forest degradation. Shrinking habitats are escalating human-wildlife conflict, while erratic weather patterns threaten biodiversity and water resources,” PS Mugambi stated.

To address these concerns, he highlighted the MoU as a crucial step toward regional cooperation, ensuring harmonized policies, joint restoration efforts, and institutional capacity-building.

He also announced that November 7th has been declared Mount Elgon Day, a dedicated occasion to raise awareness and promote conservation actions.

Beyond environmental conservation, the PS emphasized the potential of cross-border tourism to drive economic benefits.

“Mount Elgon’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage present significant opportunities. If managed sustainably, eco-tourism can serve as a powerful source of income and pride for communities on both sides of the border,” he added.

The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in transboundary conservation, setting a precedent for Kenya and Uganda’s ongoing collaboration in safeguarding their natural heritage.

The launch was graced by dignitaries, including Principal Secretaries Silvia Museiya (Wildlife 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.