Forging a Path Forward: KOWYN Hosts Crucial Stakeholder Engagement on Ogiek Land Rights

Eldama Ravine, Kenya – June 26, 2025 – The Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network (KOWYN), with the generous support of American Jewish World Service (AJWS), hosted a powerful stakeholder engagement focusing on Land Tenure Rights in Eldama Ravine. This vital gathering brought together a diverse group of partners, government representatives, legal experts, and members of the Ogiek Community to collectively advance the critical issue of Ogiek land rights and beyond.

The day was filled with rich and crucial discussions. We dove deep into the complex history and current challenges of the Ogiek land struggle, providing essential context for all participants. A significant part of the agenda included vital briefings on the African Court of Justice (ACJ) Ruling and its profound implications for indigenous land rights.

We benefited immensely from the varied perspectives shared by key collaborators. Representatives from the Baringo County Government offered insights into local governance, while CLAN Network Kenya, Ogiek Peoples’ Development Program (OPDP), Indigenous Women and Girls Initiative, and HUGAFO Network highlighted the critical role of multi-stakeholder collaboration in achieving equitable land governance. Their contributions underscored that collective action is the only way forward.

A central and highly interactive session focused on forging a robust joint advocacy strategy. Discussions centered on practical ways to leverage the Community Land Act 2016 for titling indigenous lands, ensuring the effective implementation of the landmark ACJ Ruling, and crucially, strengthening the participation and voices of Ogiek women and youth in these pivotal processes. Their inclusion is paramount to ensuring that advocacy efforts are truly representative and sustainable.

This engagement marks a significant step in KOWYN’s ongoing commitment to securing justice and equitable land rights for the Ogiek People. By fostering collaboration and strategizing together, we are building a stronger, more united front to achieve Climate Justice, Food Sovereignty, and Our Future.