EAIWA Holds Annual Meeting in Eldama Ravine, Celebrates Indigenous Agroecology Knowledge Exchange

Eldama Ravine, Baringo County – August 18, 2025

The East Africa Indigenous Women Assembly (EAIWA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Eldama Ravine over the weekend, drawing women leaders from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to discuss strategies for strengthening indigenous rights and community empowerment.

The two-day gathering, which began on Saturday, August 16, created a platform for dialogue and solidarity among grassroots leaders working to amplify women’s voices and preserve cultural heritage.

Saturday’s discussions revolved around collective action to influence policy, create economic opportunities, and safeguard traditional practices. The assembly emphasized the importance of partnerships in shaping a more inclusive future for indigenous women and their communities.

On Sunday, August 17, the program shifted to a practical exchange visit with the Kwombereriet Women Group in Eldama Ravine. Delegates toured community projects led by Chairlady Agnes Rotich, who showcased local innovations in agroecology and traditional seed preservation.

“We have always believed that the answers to food security lie in our traditions,” said Mrs. Rotich. “By protecting indigenous seeds and farming methods, we safeguard both our culture and the wellbeing of future generations.”

The women’s group, supported by the Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network (KOWYN), demonstrated techniques including organic seed storage in sealed glass bottles and the traditional practice of sun-drying maize before hanging it above kitchen fireplaces. The smoke from cooking naturally repels pests, preserving the grain without chemicals.

Delegates praised the initiative as a model for sustainable agriculture and cultural resilience.

“What we have seen here is proof that community-led solutions are the backbone of food security in our region,” said a Tanzanian representative. “These practices must be protected and passed on.”

The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from EAIWA to strengthen regional networks and highlight indigenous women’s role in shaping climate resilience, food systems, and cultural continuity.

Organizers described the Eldama Ravine meeting as a milestone in promoting grassroots leadership and ensuring that indigenous knowledge remains central in policy and development agendas.

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