Robert Aruho, a renowned wildlife veterinarian and conservation expert, has been appointed to lead the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission Antelope Specialist Group for the 2026-2030 period.
The appointment positions Aruho at the forefront of a global network of conservation scientists and practitioners dedicated to guiding the protection and recovery of antelope species across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East through research, policy advocacy, and habitat conservation.
Aruho currently serves as Conservation Lead at the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, where he has spearheaded initiatives for mountain bongo breeding and rewilding, resulting in the conservancy’s mountain bongo population growing to 102 animals. The conservancy has also recently supported the repatriation of four male bongos to enhance the species’ genetic diversity.
“This appointment reflects the growing recognition of African leadership in global biodiversity conservation and the value of science-driven collaboration in protecting threatened species.”
“We remain committed to advancing conservation models that safeguard wildlife while supporting sustainable livelihoods for communities living alongside nature.”
Prior to joining the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, Aruho spent over a decade as Senior Wildlife Veterinarian and Head of Species Programmes at the Uganda Wildlife Authority, with his work spanning multiple countries including Zimbabwe, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Namibia, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. He holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from Makerere University and a Master’s degree in International Animal Health from the University of Edinburgh.
The appointment of Aruho reinforces Africa’s growing influence in global environmental governance and species restoration efforts, according to conservation stakeholders.
