Uganda and Kenya have signed an agreement to jointly conserve the Mt. Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, an ecosystem shared by the two countries.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed at the Suam border in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya, aims to promote joint conservation, sustainable management, and eco-economic development in the region.
Uganda’s Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Doreen Katusiime, signed on behalf of Uganda, while Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage, Silvia Museiya, represented Kenya.
Strengthening Cross-Border Conservation
The agreement formalizes years of informal cooperation and paves the way for structured collaboration between the two nations. It establishes an institutional framework for conservation, enhances resource allocation, and supports joint tourism initiatives to boost local economies.
Speaking at the ceremony, Katusiime emphasized Uganda’s commitment to preserving Mt. Elgon for future generations.
“The authorities from the two countries have informally collaborated for quite some time, but the signing of this MoU marks a step in the formulation of joint economic and development strategies that promote regional economic integration,” she said.
Museiya highlighted the long journey toward finalizing the agreement, noting that it took over 10 years to reach this milestone.
“What makes sense to the common person is rain for their crops, clean air, and water. This mountain provides exactly that,” she said, adding that sustainable management is key to ensuring communities benefit from the ecosystem.
Tackling Climate and Environmental Challenges
Under the MoU, Uganda and Kenya will work together to address key environmental threats, including:
- Land degradation and pollution control
- Climate change mitigation
- Restoration of degraded wetlands and catchment areas
- Biodiversity conservation
The agreement also emphasizes integrated water resource management, recognizing Mt. Elgon as a critical water tower for both countries.
Museiya reaffirmed Kenya’s approach to conservation, stating that local communities will not be displaced but instead engaged in sustainable natural resource management.
“We have embraced a community-based approach. Mount Elgon can thrive while people continue to live there,” she said.
Mt. Elgon’s Global Recognition
The Mt. Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve was designated Africa’s second transboundary biosphere reserve by UNESCO in June 2023, reaffirming its ecological importance.
Spanning over 588,000 hectares, the reserve provides vital ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and water purification. It is home to rare and endangered species, making conservation efforts critical for maintaining biodiversity.
The new agreement strengthens Uganda and Kenya’s commitment to sustainable development, scientific research, and community-led conservation, ensuring the long-term protection of Mt. Elgon’s unique ecosystem.
