This archive report was first published on 5 September 2019.
Located in the Kenyan Central highlands, Mount Kenya is a majestic volcano that has existed for millions of years, standing at around 17,000 feet above sea level.
As one of east Africa's prides, Mount Kenya is home to a diverse range of bird, animal, and plant species that coexist in a complex ecosystem.
Here are eight interesting facts about Mount Kenya:
1. Second largest mountain in Africa ¶
Mount Kenya is the second largest mountain in the African continent, towering at a height of 5,199 meters above sea level.
2. A dormant volcano ¶
Formed about three million years ago as a result of volcanic eruption, Mount Kenya is considered a dormant volcano, with geologists predicting that it will probably never erupt again.
3. A symbol of national unity and independence ¶
After Kenya gained independence from British colonizers in 1963, the country's flag was mounted at the peak of Mount Kenya by Munyao Kisoi, a brave Kenyan who battled the cold weather to hoist the flag.
4. A sacred symbol for the Gikuyu community ¶
Considered holy by the Gikuyu community, who have resided at the mountain's base for years, Mount Kenya is a sacred symbol that should not be disrespected.
5. A challenging climb ¶
Despite being smaller than Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya is considered more difficult to climb due to its complex terrain, which requires mountain climbing and rock-climbing skills to reach the highest peak.
6. A UNESCO World Heritage site ¶
Recognized by UNESCO as one of the world's heritage sites, Mount Kenya is home to a vast ecosystem, with over 300 species of birds and rare animals such as the albino zebra.
7. Threatened by erosion and deforestation ¶
Concerns about global warming and deforestation are growing, with the melting of Mount Kenya's ice caps and the potential loss of its water source in the near future.
8. Located near the equator ¶
Located in central Kenya, close to the equator, Mount Kenya experiences unique climatic conditions, with the sun rising and setting at the same time almost every day.
