KOWYN Commissions Indigenous Seed Bank for Ogiek Women

Eldama Ravine, Kenya – July 10, 2025 – Today marked a truly momentous occasion for the Ogiek community in Eldama Ravine! The Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network (KOWYN) proudly commissioned a brand new Indigenous Seed Bank specifically for Ogiek women at Mlango Moja.

This vital initiative is set to empower Ogiek women, who are the custodians of invaluable traditional knowledge, to preserve and promote our ancestral seeds. These indigenous seeds are more than just crops; they they are crucial for:

• Ensuring food security and nutritional diversity within our community.
• Maintaining our rich cultural heritage and profound connection to the land.
• Building resilience against climate change through locally adapted varieties that have stood the test of time.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this dream a reality. Our dedicated partners, American Jewish World Service (AJWS) and Global Greengrants Fund, provided generous support that was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. We also deeply appreciate the tireless efforts of the dedicated members of the Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network, our esteemed community elders, and all our supporters.

This is a significant step towards strengthening Ogiek women’s pivotal roles in agriculture and safeguarding our precious indigenous resources for generations to come! It embodies our commitment to Climate Justice. Food Sovereignty. Our Future.