The recent arrival of four Mountain Bongos is a proud and hopeful moment for Kenya.

These rare antelopes, part of our irreplaceable natural heritage, represent not only a conservation success but also a call to action. Their journey home underscores a critical message: the future of conservation in Kenya depends on the active participation of private developers and investors.

For many years, conservation has largely been perceived as a government function.

While the state remains firmly committed to protecting our wildlife, the realities on the ground demand a broader approach.

More than 65 per cent of Kenya’s wildlife exists outside protected areas, roaming across private land, community conservancies and mixed-use landscapes.

This means that the success of conservation efforts cannot rest solely on public institutions. The land, resources, and opportunities necessary to sustain wildlife increasingly lie in the hands of private actors.

Private developers, in particular, have a unique and transformative role to play.

By integrating conservation into development planning, private investors can help create spaces where economic growth and environmental stewardship coexist.

Eco-friendly estates, conservancies, sustainable tourism facilities and wildlife corridors are just a few examples of how development can actively support biodiversity.

Rather than viewing conservation as a constraint, developers should see it as an opportunity – one that enhances land value, attracts global attention and aligns with the growing demand for sustainable investment.

The successful re-homing of the mountain bongos under the Mountain Bongo National Recovery Action Plan, illustrates the power of collaboration. It is through partnerships – between government, private conservancies and communities – that such milestones are achieved.

Private entities bring innovation, efficiency and long-term investment capacity, complementing the regulatory and policy framework provided by government.

Moreover, wildlife conservation is deeply tied to Kenya’s economic future. With over 70 per cent of our tourism driven by wildlife, protecting biodiversity is essential for sustaining jobs, livelihoods and national revenue.

Private developers who align their projects with conservation goals are not only contributing to environmental protection but also securing the long-term viability of a key economic sector.

To fully unlock this potential, we must continue to create an enabling environment for private participation. This includes clear policies, investment incentives, and strong public-private partnerships that make conservation a practical and rewarding venture.

At the same time, developers must embrace responsible practices that prioritize sustainability and community engagement.

Conservation is no longer the exclusive domain of government. It is a shared responsibility – and an opportunity – for all. Private developers, in particular, hold the key to expanding conservation beyond traditional boundaries and ensuring that wildlife thrives alongside development.

The return of the mountain bongos is a symbol of what is possible.

The next step is clear: we must invite and empower private players to become central partners in safeguarding Kenya’s natural legacy for generations to come.

This is the origin of wonder!

• A Tell Media report / By Rebecca Miano / The author is Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife