KOWYN Hosts Women Human Rights Defenders Hub

Eldama Ravine, Kenya – July 3, 2025 – The Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network (KOWYN) was delighted to welcome representatives from the Women Human Rights Defenders Hub (The Hub) for a pivotal visit. This engagement marks the exciting beginning of a new partnership, reinforcing our commitment to the well-being and effectiveness of our organization and the communities we serve.

The visit centered on a crucial assessment of KOWYN’s safety and wellness frameworks. This step is paramount to ensuring that we continue to provide the most robust and comprehensive support for the Ogiek women and youth who are at the heart of our mission. Understanding and enhancing our internal systems for care and protection is vital in our mission.

Following the official assessment, we had the privilege of taking our guests on an enriching excursion to Chemususu Dam, located within one of the vital forest blocks in Koibatek. This outing provided a valuable opportunity to share firsthand the unique environmental context in which we operate and highlight the profound connection of the Ogiek community to their ancestral lands and natural resources.

At KOWYN, we are incredibly excited about the potential this new partnership with The Hub holds. Their expertise in supporting human rights defenders will undoubtedly strengthen our capacity to advocate for and serve the Ogiek community, ensuring our work is not only impactful but also sustainable, built on a foundation of safety and collective well-being.