Four Rare Mountain Bongos Arrive at JKIA  from Czech Republic in Historic Return

Kenya has received four rare mountain bongos from the Czech Republic, part of efforts to save one of the world’s most endangered antelope species.

The Kenya Wildlife Service said the four males arrived on Tuesday night, April 28, 2026, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) aboard a cargo flight operated by KLM.

KWS said the arrival marks a step in the country’s wildlife recovery programme.

“Tonight at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya welcomed four rare mountain bongos back home,” the statement said.

Historic Homecoming as Four Rare Mountain Bongos Arrive at JKIA from Czech Republic

According to KWS, the animals had been under the care of Zoo Dvůr Králové, a facility known for its long-standing role in breeding and conserving endangered species, including the mountain bongo.

The homecoming ceremony was led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, and attended by conservation partners and government officials.

The bongos have been transferred to the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC), which now hosts over 100 individuals. Conservationists say the addition of the four males will help strengthen the gene pool and improve breeding success as part of ongoing recovery efforts.

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New Arrivals Expected to Play a Role in Boosting Population

MKWC patron Humphrey Kariuki said the new arrivals are expected to play a key role in boosting the population and ensuring the species’ long-term survival.

The repatriation is part of Kenya’s broader conservation strategy under the National Recovery and Action Plan for the Mountain Bongo, implemented by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in collaboration with international partners.

Czech Republic Ambassador Nicol Adamcova described the translocation as a symbol of strong conservation ties between Kenya and the Czech Republic, highlighting the shared commitment to protecting endangered wildlife.

KWS Director General Erustus Kanga said the return of the animals represents “a moment of hope, responsibility, and renewed commitment” to securing the future of the mountain bongo.

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Mountain bongos were once common in forests like the Aberdare Range, Mount Kenya, Mau Forest, and Eburu Forest. However, their numbers have decreased significantly because of poaching, disease, and habitat loss. Fewer than 100 are believed to remain in the wild.

Officials say the latest move brings Kenya closer to restoring the species to its natural habitat.

The government is also preparing to launch a new 2026–2030 recovery plan aimed at scaling up conservation efforts, strengthening breeding programmes, and supporting reintroduction into the wild.

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Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi giving his remarks after receiving Mountain Bongos from Czech Republic officials at JKIA on Tuesday, April 28 2026. PHOTO/KWS