Bamburi Cement Company has been awarded the coveted Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) International Habitat Conservation Award for rehabilitation works at its Mombasa quarries.  
 
The company was presented the award at the WHC’s 18th annual symposium in Baltimore, US.
 
"The ongoing biodiversity enhancement programme at Bamburi Cement Mombasa quarries, and other projects of its kind, demonstrates the potential and overall benefits of protecting nature by promoting and demonstrating co-existence of industry with nature," said Robert Johnson, WHC President.  
 
WHC’s awards recognise voluntary activities by individuals, companies and organisations, large or small, private or non-profit, who demonstrate excellence in wildlife habitat enhancement and restoration.  
 
Bamburi Cement’s Mombasa quarries are the first to be certified by WHC in Africa.  
 
"Restoration conducted at the Mombasa site promotes the conservation of rare and endangered species and habitats, while enhancing the economic status of the community by providing employment opportunities," Bamburi Cement Managing Director said last week.  
 
Bamburi has planted over 350 species of coastal indigenous plants, approximately 30 of which are listed on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red Data list as rare or endangered species.  
 
Bamburi says the certification requirements are strict and require that sites apply for periodic renewal.  
 
The primary goal of the sites is to create an environment rich in the unique biodiversity of the Kenyan coast, complete with self-sustaining ecological functions.