*⚡#weekendhighlights* Kenya has received 17 critically endangered mountain bongos that were repatriated from the United States. The mountain bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci) is one of the rarest antelope species in the world, with fewer than 100 remaining in the wild, all found in Kenya. These rare antelopes, originally native to Kenya, were taken in the 1960s as part of breeding programs abroad. Now, decades later, they are returning home to help revive their dwindling wild population. The 12 females and 5 males arrived at The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport last night. After a warm welcome, they were transported to a protected breeding and rehabilitation center in Marania and Mucheene Sanctuary, Meru County. Here, they will undergo quarantine and acclimatization before being gradually introduced into the wild. For decades, efforts to save the mountain bongo have depended on breeding programs outside Africa. This repatriation ensures that Kenya takes charge of its own biodiversity, reinforcing the country’s position as a leader in wildlife conservation. The National Recovery and Action Plan for the Mountain Bongo aims to increase the population to over 700 by 2050. 📹Rarespeciesorg