His appointment marks a historic milestone as he becomes the first African to be recognised as an IUCN Patron of Nature, underscoring his leadership in African-led conservation and his long-standing commitment to sustainable development across the continent.
“I am delighted to welcome Mr Humphrey Kariuki, who has had a lifelong passion for wildlife and a long history of supporting conservation efforts in Kenya, to the IUCN’s Patrons of Nature. His leadership and long-standing commitment to advancing sustainable, homegrown conservation solutions in Africa is inspiring, and his experience will be invaluable as we work together to protect biodiversity, empower local communities, and accelerate climate action. With his vision and support, we can expand IUCN’s impact and help shape a more resilient and nature-positive future for our precious planet. We look forward to working with Mr Kariuki as we continue to drive for ambitious action on biodiversity and climate,” said Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General.
“I am deeply honoured to be named a Patron of Nature by IUCN,” said Humphrey Kariuki in his acceptance remarks. “This recognition serves as a tribute to Africa’s role in global conservation. Our biodiversity is a gift, and its protection is crucial. I look forward to working with IUCN and fellow Patrons to demonstrate that investing in nature is essential for our planet’s future and a catalyst for sustainable economic growth.”
A visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, Humphrey Kariuki is the Patron of the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC), one of Africa’s leading conservation institutions. Under his stewardship, MKWC has become a living model for how ecological restoration and community development can be successfully integrated.
Humphrey Kariuki’s conservation leadership is perhaps most visible through his work at the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, where he has driven forward some of Africa’s most ambitious and impactful initiatives.
At the heart of his efforts is the breeding and rewilding of the Critically Endangered Mountain bongo, a rare antelope found only in Kenya’s highland forests. Under his guidance, a carefully managed rewilding programme has been established, with over 90 Mountain Bongo antelopes successfully enrolled into the rewilding program in natural habitats within the range.
Beyond species recovery, Kariuki is a strong advocate for total environmental restoration and has placed significant emphasis on restoring degraded ecosystems. Through the planting of more than 40,000 indigenous trees, the Conservancy has not only revived native forests but also strengthened climate resilience and enhanced water security for the surrounding communities.
The Conservancy’s role as a centre for wildlife rescue and rehabilitation further highlights his holistic approach to conservation. Injured and orphaned wild species are given care and treatment, then released back into their natural environments. At the same time, the Conservancy serves as an open classroom, providing conservation education to local learners and international students.
Recognising that conservation success depends on people, Kariuki has also championed education and capacity building, establishing training and research opportunities for young Africans, wildlife rangers, and professionals. These programmes nurture the next generation of conservation leaders, equipping them with the skills needed to safeguard Africa’s natural heritage.
Kariuki has consistently promoted eco-livelihoods that balance environmental protection with economic opportunity. Through encouraging eco-tourism, conservation-friendly farming, and sustainable forestry enterprises, he has demonstrated how communities can prosper while acting as stewards of the environment.
Established in 2010, the IUCN Patrons of Nature bring together high-level leaders committed to advancing biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. The Patrons provide strategic guidance to IUCN, generate investment for flagship initiatives, and inspire global action towards a just world that values and conserves nature.
With his appointment at the IUCN World Conservation Congress, Humphrey Kariuki introduces a strong African voice and perspective to this global platform, reaffirming the importance of locally driven conservation solutions for both biodiversity and community wellbeing.