TUSK WILDLIFE RANGER AWARD
WINNER 2025
Laban Mwangi
Kenya
Laban Mwangi, has been recognised for his exemplary leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation, especially in his protection of the endangered mountain bongo and his impact on local communities.
Born and raised in North Nyandarua, central Kenya, Laban’s conservation journey was inspired by his father, who’s stories about the elusive bongo, an animal so rare that few had ever seen one, sparked Laban’s lifelong passion to protect them and their forest home.
Laban joined the Mountain Bongo Project (formerly Bongo Surveillance Project, BSP) in 2005 as its first ever ranger. His life has been dedicated to protecting the mountain bongo and safeguarding vital forest ecosystems through anti-poaching efforts, habitat monitoring and wildlife tracking.
Laban leads a team operating across the Aberdare and Maasai Mau Forests, two of Kenya’s most vital ecosystems, where their work also protects many more species including the extremely rare yellow-backed duikers and giant pangolins.
Laban’s community work, education initiatives, and conservation partnerships with organisations like Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, and The Pangolin Project, have built a legacy rooted in collaboration and resilience.
Through his unwavering dedication, Laban Mwangi stands as a true guardian of Kenya’s natural heritage and a shining example of the courage, compassion, and leadership celebrated by the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award.
“protect what you have before it’s gone. The forest doesn’t speak, and the bongo cannot ask for help, but they depend on us. Even if you don’t see them every day, they are part of who we are. Don’t wait for someone else to do the work. Be brave, be consistent, and remember that even small actions can help keep our natural heritage alive.”
