EST. 1999
MOUNT KENYA TRUST
MKT is the leading NGO dedicated to conserving and restoring the forests of Mount Kenya, one of Kenya’s most vital ecosystems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a key player in forest conservation, MKT safeguards this critical watershed, ensuring its resilience for people and nature.
OUR ORIGIN
Born From Crisis, Built For The Long Term
In early 1999, an aerial survey by Kenya Wildlife Service in conjunction with UNEP revealed extensive destruction of Mount Kenya and Imenti Forests. In response, the founding Trustees established The Bill Woodley Mount Kenya Trust.
The threats driving forest destruction are constantly changing. In 25 years, we have built a portfolio of holistically integrated projects, earning trust and taking greater steps towards resilience.
WHERE WE WORK
Mount Kenya Biosphere Reserve
Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest mountain at 5,199 meters, lies 140 km north of Nairobi and 450 km inland from the coast. An extinct volcano formed approximately three million years ago, it harbours a diverse montane ecosystems with 882 recorded plant species, 81 of which are endemic. Mount Kenya’s Afromontane forests, extensive bamboo stands, and moorlands host significant biodiversity, including 81 endemic plant species and critically endangered species such as the Mountain Bongo. Beyond its ecological value, the ecosystems are a vital watershed that supply water to over 3.5 million people across ten counties, sustaining livelihoods, agriculture. It also serves as a cultural heritage in Kenya's North and Central regions. It is home to 27 forest-edge communities, most of whom rely on local restoration activities, agriculture, timber for construction, and wood fuel for cooking activities that all directly impact the ecosystems.
WHY WE DO IT
Forest destruction in the Mount Kenya ecosystem is driven by unsustainable logging, agricultural expansion, and illegal activities such as charcoal burning, poaching, and land encroachment. These pressures contribute to severe deforestation, habitat loss, and biodiversity decline, reducing the ecosystems' ability to regulate water flow and store carbon. This degradation threatens wildlife and endangers the livelihoods of local communities that depend on forest resources and other ecosystem services.
VALUE PROPOSITION
What Sets Us Apart
What sets MKT apart is its collaborative, community-driven approach. By working closely with government agencies, local communities, and conservation partners, MKT combines bold, innovative strategies with on-the-ground action to protect essential habitats while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
WHAT GUIDES US
Our Values
Integrity
MKT is founded on honesty and trust, ensuring accountability, transparency, and the highest ethical standards. With over 20 years of strong relationships, MKT
upholds integrity as a pillar of its success.
Inclusion and Diversity
MKT fosters an environment where everyone is valued equally, ensuring equal access to resources while embracing diverse cultures, religions, genders, and
backgrounds.
Collaborative Impact
MKT’s success is built on strong partnerships, leveraging collective strengths to achieve shared conservation goals.
Sustainability for Generations
MKT promotes responsible resource use and nurtures future conservationists through education and knowledge sharing. Its efforts are rooted in the belief that sustainable practices today are the foundation for a thriving future.
Innovation And Adaptability
MKT blends modern and Indigenous knowledge, embracing creative solutions to navigate conservation challenges with resilience.