Protecting critically endangered mountain bongo wins Kenyan head ranger 2025 Tusk Conservation Award

Mountain Bongo Project head ranger Laban Mwangi has been recognised at this year's Tusk Conservation Awards for his dedication to protecting the critically endangered animals and safeguarding Kenya’s forest ecosystems.

Mwangi was one of three frontline conservationists honoured by Prince William at the 13th annual awards in London on November 26.

The awards are organised by international UK-based conservation charity Tusk in partnership with Ninety One and have honoured 57 winners from more than 20 countries since they launched in 2013.

Africa’s conservationists continue to rise to the challenge of tackling accelerating biodiversity loss, escalating climate impacts and growing competition for land between people and wildlife.

The continent holds one-quarter of global biodiversity, nine per cent of renewable freshwater, 20 per cent of the world’s tropical rainforest and nearly 9,000 protected areas.

By recognising those leading this work, the Tusk Conservation Awards help bridge the gap between global ambition and local impact.

Addressing the awards ceremony, Prince William said, “Tonight is a reminder that our planet continues to face serious environmental concerns."

" We must continue our efforts to protect nature and highlight the critical role that biodiversity plays in supporting all life on earth.

"It is so often the indigenous communities and local conservation leaders who provide the practical solutions to how we can best sustain our precious natural landscapes and vital biodiversity."

"Laban, Rahima and Kumara are wonderful examples of what can be achieved locally, regionally and at the national level. Humanity thrives when nature is given the space to provide us with the clean air, water, and food that we all require.

"That is why the insight and expertise of the Tusk award winners should inspire us to drive change. We must continue to amplify their voices and support their vital work.”

Mwangi won the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award for his 20 years of leadership in protecting the critically endangered mountain bongo, mentoring rangers and building community support for conservation in the Aberdare and Maasai Mau forests in Kenya.

Mwangi joined the organisation as its first ranger in 2005 and has risen to now be head ranger.

His leadership has strengthened partnerships with KWS and KFS, inspired a new generation of rangers, supported over 30,000 community members through conservation outreach and introduced sustainable alternatives to harmful practices.

His courage under pressure was exemplified during a violent ambush by poachers, where his calm leadership saved lives and upheld conservation principles.

Mwangi said, “I accept this award not only for myself but also for the Mountain Bongo Project, the organisation I work for and for my ranger team."

" Every day my colleagues patrol the Aberdare and Maasai Mau forests. They walk long distances, often in hard conditions, to look after the last wild mountain bongos. I see how hard they work, and this award is for them too.”

Nick Bubb, CEO of Tusk, said: “Africa is a key global asset for animal, plant and marine biodiversity and for 35 years Tusk has supported vital conservation initiatives across the continent.

The Tusk Conservation Awards celebrate the remarkable, courageous and committed individuals who safeguard Africa’s natural heritage and demonstrate the power of locally led conservation.”

Hendrik du Toit, founder and chief executive of Ninety One, said: “Africa’s biodiversity is one of the world’s greatest assets. Protecting it is fundamental to our collective future."

" The Tusk Conservation Awards shine a light on the remarkable individuals who turn conviction into action, safeguarding Africa’s natural heritage for generations to come.”