ABU DHABI, UAE, October 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially named Humphrey Kariuki as a new patron of nature, in an announcement made at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi.
His appointment marks a historic milestone as he becomes the first African to be recognized as an IUCN Patron of Nature, highlighting his leadership in African-led conservation and his long-standing commitment to sustainable development across the continent.
“I am delighted to welcome Mr. Humphrey Kariuki, who has a lifelong passion for wildlife and a long history of supporting conservation efforts in Kenya, to the IUCN Patrons of Nature. His leadership and long-standing commitment to sustainable, local conservation solutions in Africa are inspiring, and his experience will be invaluable as we work together to protect biodiversity, empower local communities and accelerate climate action. With its vision and support, we can expand IUCN’s impact and help shape a more resilient, nature-friendly future for our precious planet. We look forward to working with Mr Kariuki as we take ambitious action on biodiversity and climate,” said Dr Grethel Aguilar, Director General of IUCN.
“I am deeply honored to be named Patron of Nature by the IUCN,” said Humphrey Kariuki in his acceptance remarks. “This recognition honors Africa’s role in global conservation. I look forward to working with IUCN and other patrons to demonstrate that investing in nature is essential for the future of our planet and is a catalyst for sustainable economic growth.”
Visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, Humphrey Kariuki is the patron of the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC), one of Africa’s leading conservation institutions.
Humphrey KariukiKenya’s leadership in conservation is most visible through the breeding and rewilding of the mountain bongo, a rare antelope found only in Kenya’s highland forests.
Beyond species recovery, Kariuki is a strong advocate for total environmental restoration. Kariuki champions ecological livelihoods that link environmental protection to economic growth, showing how communities can thrive while preserving nature through ecotourism, sustainable agriculture and forestry.
Created in 2010, the IUCN Patrons of Nature brings together high-level leaders committed to promoting the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources.
For more details on Humphrey Kariuki’s work, please visit www.humphreykariuki.com.
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SOURCE Humphrey Kariuki, Founder, Janus Continental Group and Patron of MKWC
