KOWYN Champions Digital Rights for Environmental Defenders

Eldama Ravine, Kenya – July 10, 2025 – The digital world offers immense potential for advocacy, and at the Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network (KOWYN), we’re committed to ensuring Indigenous voices are amplified safely and effectively. On July 10th, our representatives were honored to be part of a crucial, two-day Digital Security Meeting, an all-Indigenous youth mainstreaming dialogue focused on “Digital Empowerment for Advocacy.”

This transformative training session brought together 30 Ogiek Environmental Rights Defenders to explore how digital technologies can support their vital work in advocating for land, cultural heritage, and environmental protection. Hosted by the Ogiek Peoples’ Development Program (OPDP), with support from the International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA) and the Digital Democracy Initiative, this program is incredibly impactful and timely.

The session focused on enhancing digital access and safety for Indigenous communities – an increasingly urgent need in today’s fast-changing digital landscape. Participants delved into key areas, gaining practical skills and invaluable knowledge:

• Secure Communication & Land Monitoring: Learning how to connect and observe safely in crucial advocacy efforts.
• Digital Storytelling & Community Journalism: Equipping defenders with tools to share their powerful narratives and highlight community perspectives.
• Cybersecurity Basics & Digital Safety in Activism: Understanding essential strategies and tools to protect personal data and coordinate safely during advocacy campaigns.

We were particularly inspired by Cyber Security Consultant Nelly Mwaringa’s keynote address, which shared invaluable insights on Digital Storytelling, Community Journalism, and effective Social Media strategies.

Her expertise is crucial as Indigenous defenders like the Ogiek navigate the complexities of the digital age.

This training aims to ensure that no Indigenous defender is left behind. Instead, they are empowered to use technology to amplify their voices, protect their rights, and share their wisdom with the world. We’re incredibly proud of the insights and enthusiasm shown by the participants and are excited to see the impact they create next!