Humphrey Kariuki Becomes First African IUCN Patron of Nature at World Congress

Humphrey Kariuki: A Trailblazer for African Conservation

On October 12, 2025, during the World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) made a groundbreaking announcement: Humphrey Kariuki was named its latest Patron of Nature. This significant recognition marks a historic moment as Kariuki becomes the first African to hold this esteemed title within the organization, highlighting his pivotal role in wildlife preservation across Africa and his enduring commitment to sustainable development on the continent.

Kariuki's appointment brings to the forefront his long-standing dedication to conservation efforts in Kenya. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of IUCN, commented on Kariuki’s distinguished leadership and unwavering support for nature conservation. His leadership qualities and years of commitment to promoting sustainable solutions for environmental protection in Africa are inspiring and will prove invaluable as IUCN collaborates to enhance biodiversity, empower local communities, and accelerate climate action.

In his acceptance speech, Kariuki expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, calling it an acknowledgment of Africa’s vital role in global conservation. He stated, “This recognition is an affirmation of the key position Africa holds in the global conservation landscape. I look forward to collaborating with IUCN and the other patrons who advocate for investing in nature as a core element for the future of our planet and a catalyst for sustainable economic growth.”

Kariuki, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, is additionally recognized as the patron of the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC), a premier conservation institution in Africa. His leadership in nature conservation is particularly evident through the breeding and recovery efforts of the critically endangered Mountain Bongo, a rare antelope species endemic to Kenya’s mountain forests.

Beyond species recovery, Kariuki strongly advocates for comprehensive environmental restoration. He promotes ecological lifestyles that marry environmental conservation with economic growth, showcasing how communities can thrive while preserving nature through ecotourism, sustainable agriculture, and forestry.

The IUCN Patrons of Nature initiative was launched in 2010, bringing together high-profile individuals committed to promoting biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. Kariuki’s work exemplifies this mission and signifies a hopeful future for conservation in Africa, underlining that investments in nature are critical for the well-being of our planet.

Details about Humphrey Kariuki's initiatives and contributions to conservation efforts can be found at www.humphreykariuki.com. The announcement not only celebrates Kariuki's individual achievements but also paved the way for greater collaboration between Africa and international bodies in the fight against biodiversity loss and climate change.

As the world collectively aims to forge a sustainable future, leaders like Humphrey Kariuki stand at the forefront, inspiring a new wave of conservation efforts that embody hope, resilience, and a commitment to protecting our precious environment for future generations.