Mt. Elgon Ecosystem (Kenya)

Description

Mount Elgon, an impressive transboundary landscape, is a significant geographical and ecological landmark located approximately 140 kilometers northeast of Lake Victoria. Straddling the border between Kenya and Uganda, it stands as a testament to the ancient volcanic activity in East Africa. Remarkably, Mount Elgon is not only the oldest but also the largest solitary volcanic mountain in this region, boasting an estimated age of about 24 million years.

Encompassing an expansive area of approximately 4,000 square kilometers, the mountain's vast ecosystem showcases a remarkable range of elevations, stretching from around 1,750 meters to a soaring 4,300 meters above sea level. Its precise coordinates are 1°00'36.0" N latitude and 34°37'48.0" E longitude, placing it in a region that experiences a variety of climatic and ecological conditions.

One of the most striking features of Mount Elgon is its diverse vegetation zones, which change dramatically with altitude. At the lower altitudes, the mountain is characterized by Savannah landscapes, offering a glimpse into the typical East African plains that many associate with the region. As one ascends, this gives way to woodland areas, which in turn transition into lush montane forests. These forests are known for their rich biodiversity and are a crucial habitat for various wildlife species.

At the highest altitudes, the vegetation becomes more sparse and rugged, forming what is known as moorland. This zone is particularly notable for its unique flora and fauna adapted to the cooler and harsher conditions found at these elevations. The entire gradient from Savannah to moorland on Mount Elgon presents a fascinating study in ecological variation, offering scientists and nature enthusiasts alike a window into the complex interplay between altitude, climate, and biodiversity.

In summary, Mount Elgon is not just a geographical marvel but also an ecological treasure, representing a unique blend of natural beauty and scientific interest. Its age, size, and diverse ecosystems make it a significant feature in the East African landscape, attracting researchers, hikers, and tourists from around the world.

Description of the component part(s)

Mount Elgon, recognized as one of the six Biosphere Reserves in Kenya under UNESCO since 2003, is a key component of the country's ecological and cultural heritage. This distinction is a testament to its rich Afromontane flora and fauna, cultural significance, and crucial role as a water catchment area. Furthermore, Mount Elgon is one of Kenya's five vital water towers, serving as a catchment for three significant lakes: Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana in Kenya, and Lake Kyoga in Uganda. This role is facilitated by the mountain's network of main feeder rivers and tributaries.

The Mt. Elgon ecosystem stands out globally, recognized by Conservation International as one of the thirty-six biodiversity hotspots. This designation highlights its remarkable collection of rare, endemic, and threatened species of plants and animals, some of which are unique to Mount Elgon and not found anywhere else in the world. Wildlife in the area includes elephants, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, small antelopes and duikers, forest monkeys like the black-and-white colobus and blue monkeys.

Of particular zoological importance are bird species such as Sharpe’s Longclaw and Elgon Francolin. These birds, endemic to the grasslands and forests of Kenya and Uganda, are listed as Endangered and Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, respectively. Reptiles and amphibians like the Mt. Elgon Forest Gecko (Cnemaspis elgonensis) and Du Toit's Torrent Frog (Arthroleptides dutoiti) are also of conservation concern, with the latter being listed as Critically Endangered and possibly extinct.

The ecosystem is also rich in insect life, with numerous species of flies, spiders, and crabs endemic to it. The botanical diversity is equally impressive, with many rare, endangered, or endemic plants such as Carex elgonensis, Dendrosenecio elgonensis subsp. elgonensis, Lobelia gregoriana subsp. elgonensis, and Aloe elgonica. Notably, new plant species continue to be discovered in the area, such as Peponium elgonense (Curcubitaceae), a recent addition to science found in Mt. Elgon National Park (Kenya).

Geologically and ecologically, Mount Elgon is renowned for its unique elephant population, the only one in the world known to venture deep into caves to mine salt from the volcanic ash. The famous Kitum Cave in the Mt. Elgon National Park, along with other lesser-known 'salt caves', have been identified as part of the conservation efforts by the East African Wildlife Society Mt Elgon Elephant Project (EAWLS-MEEP). Additionally, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of human habitation in these caves dating back over 3,000 years, further underscoring the mountain's historical and cultural significance.

Justification of Outstanding Universal Value

The Mount Elgon Ecosystem, with its distinct and rich natural and cultural attributes, presents a compelling case for its inscription on the World Heritage List, demonstrating Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) in several key aspects:

Exceptional Natural Diversity and Endemism: As one of the six Biosphere Reserves in Kenya, Mount Elgon's ecosystem is a prime example of Afromontane biodiversity. It is part of the eastern/central Afromontane hotspots, one of the thirty-six global biodiversity hotspots identified by Conservation International. This status is attributed to its unique assemblage of rare, endemic, and threatened species of flora and fauna. The presence of species named after the mountain, which are not found elsewhere, underlines the area's significance in global biodiversity conservation.

Critical Water Tower Function: Mount Elgon serves as one of the five crucial water towers in Kenya. It plays a vital role in the hydrological cycle, acting as a catchment area for three major lakes - Lake Victoria, Lake Turkana in Kenya, and Lake Kyoga in Uganda. This function is facilitated through a network of main feeder rivers and tributaries, making it essential for regional water security and ecosystem services.

Habitat for Threatened and Endangered Species: The ecosystem is a sanctuary for various wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and several primate species. Notably, it supports bird species like Sharpe’s Longclaw and Elgon Francolin, and reptiles like the Mt. Elgon Forest Gecko and Du Toit's Torrent Frog, many of which are listed as endangered or critically endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This highlights the area's critical role in the survival of these species.

Unique Geological and Ecological Features: Mount Elgon is geologically significant, being the site where the world's only known population of elephants that enter caves to mine salt from volcanic ash. This unique behavior underscores the mountain's ecological uniqueness and importance.

Richness in Botanical Diversity: The mountain is home to numerous rare, endangered, or endemic plants such as Carex elgonensis, Dendrosenecio elgonensis, and Aloe elgonica. The ongoing discovery of new species, like Peponium elgonense, indicates the mountain's ongoing biological richness and its importance as a living laboratory for scientific research.

Cultural and Archaeological Significance: Mount Elgon has a profound cultural significance to surrounding communities and is a site of ancient human habitation, with archaeological evidence dating back over 3,000 years. This aspect not only adds to its natural value but also to its historical and cultural importance.

In summary, Mount Elgon's Outstanding Universal Value lies in its unparalleled biodiversity, vital role in regional hydrology, habitat for numerous endangered species, unique geological and ecological attributes, botanical richness, and deep cultural and historical significance. These attributes collectively justify its future nomination as a World Heritage Site, ensuring its protection and recognition for its global importance.

In summary, Mount Elgon Ecosystem's unique geological features, diverse habitats, and role as a key water tower, combined with its rich biodiversity, meet multiple criteria set by UNESCO for World Heritage Sites. These factors collectively demonstrate its Outstanding Universal Value, making it a deserving candidate for inclusion on the World Heritage List.

Statements of authenticity and/or integrity

The comprehensive protection and management of Mount Elgon by the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, and Uganda Wildlife Authority ensure the integrity of the site. This includes the conservation of its diverse habitats, species, water sources, and geological features. The integrity of Mount Elgon is crucial for maintaining its Outstanding Universal Value, including its role as a water tower, biodiversity hotspot, and cultural heritage site.

In essence, the authenticity of Mount Elgon is rooted in its undisturbed natural and cultural features, while its integrity is upheld through effective conservation and management practices. For detailed guidelines on authenticity and integrity in the context of World Heritage Sites, you can refer to UNESCO's Operational Guidelines.

Justification of the selection of the component part(s) in relation to the future nomination as a whole

Ecological and Biological Significance: The diverse habitats within Mount Elgon, including forests, caves, and water systems, contribute to its status as a biodiversity hotspot. This encompasses rare, endemic, and threatened species, affirming the site's ecological and biological importance.

Geological Importance: As one of the oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountains in East Africa, Mount Elgon's geological features, such as its caves and caldera, are of significant scientific interest.

These elements collectively underscore Mount Elgon's suitability for nomination, emphasizing its unique and outstanding universal value.

Comparison with other similar properties

Mount Elgon Ecosystem is distinctive in several aspects, particularly when compared to Mount Kenya National Park/Natural Forest. While both are volcanic in origin and home to diverse wildlife and rare flora and fauna, Mount Elgon stands out due to its unique ecological and geological features. A key highlight is the phenomenon of 'cave elephants', a unique behavior where elephants venture deep underground into caves to mine salt. This behavior is exclusive to Mount Elgon and is not observed anywhere else in the world, including Mount Kenya. Additionally, Mount Elgon's age as the oldest volcanic mountain in East Africa contributes to its distinctiveness. The mountain's extensive range of altitudes creates diverse habitats, supporting a variety of endemic and endangered species. This combination of geological uniqueness, rare wildlife behaviors, and biodiversity contributes to the exceptional character of Mount Elgon, distinguishing it from other similar properties and reinforcing its potential for World Heritage Site nomination.