The Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC) is using AI technology to protect the critically endangered mountain bongo. The conservancy is run by conservationist and entrepreneur Humphrey Kariuki. To monitor, track, and guarantee the survival of this endangered species, it has brought in advanced tools.
Additionally, MKWC is changing conservation regulations not only in Kenya but across the region. This shift is driven by smart data systems and real-time monitoring. Currently, fewer than 100 bongos remain in the wild. Therefore, this initiative is timely for the bongo species and its environment.
Tracking Wildlife with AI for Safer Habitats
MKWC’s AI technology consists of mobile tools, software, and cameras. The purpose of these tools is to monitor the health, movement, and individual bongos. Additionally, by detecting stress indicators early, these systems enable teams to act more quickly. It took years to collect such detailed data prior to AI.
Now, the same insights come in months, thanks to real-time monitoring. As a result, fewer human patrols are required, and the animals are not disturbed in their natural habitat. The head of MKWC, Dr. Robert Aruho, explains that AI facilitates effective data collection scaling. Even with the occasional outage, the technology has a big overall impact.
The conservancy has implemented these systems throughout its wooded areas with assistance from Chester Zoo and ConservationAI. In addition to detecting animal movement, these AI tools scan continuously, day and night. Additionally, they can monitor or measure variations in temperature, precipitation, and vegetation.
Reintroducing Bongos with Data-Driven Intelligence
In 2022, MKWC launched the Mawingu Mountain Bongo Sanctuary to prepare captive-bred bongos for rewilding. AI tools were used to track each of the five releases that year. Alerts are sent when abnormal behavior is detected, and each animal has a digital profile. The reintroduced animals now have higher survival rates due to the use of real-time monitoring.
The 1,250-acre conservancy includes a 776-acre sanctuary where animals are allowed to roam freely. Those who can adjust well are transferred to Aberdare. Furthermore, the facility offers a healing environment for injured animals who are unable to return to the wild. MKWC is currently integrating satellite data for improved habitat management with assistance from the Kenya Space Agency.
Additionally, local rangers have received AI data interpretation training. This enhances reactions and lowers the likelihood of conflict between people and wildlife. Furthermore, neighboring villages receive AI-generated maps, which promote a sense of shared responsibility. In the long run, this will make the connections between humans and nature stronger.
AI Technology Helps Ecosystems Thrive
AI technology has applications beyond animal tracking. It also aids in forest restoration by examining species diversity and canopy cover. These insights assist MKWC in applying for carbon funding programs and demonstrating progress to donors. Here, conservation is sustainable and wise.
Additionally, the conservancy intends to train drones with AI vision to investigate water stress and under-canopy vegetation. During dry seasons, this will help conserve wildlife. Such initiatives promise the mountain bongo a healthier habitat. These new methods could soon become a blueprint for African-led conservation models, built on local knowledge and smart tools.
Final Words
MKWC emphasizes that although AI technology speeds up results, it cannot replace ecological insight and human passion. According to Dr. Aruho, the mission continues to be heavily reliant on Kenyan communities and rangers. Therefore, the mountain bongo population, which is predicted to grow to 70 individuals by next year, can be restored. It will be accomplished by fusing tradition and innovation. This model proves that wildlife conservation can thrive when powered by technology and rooted in local pride.
About The Author
