The Ogiek community has urged the government to allow it to be part of Mau forest conservation program.
Ogiek People Development Programme (OPDP) chairman Daniel Kobei said indigenous community are in better position to conserve forest resources and protect it from degradation as their livelihood solely revolves around the forest ecosystem.
Kobei, a graduate from Egerton University is among the few educated people from the community.
For now, Kobei is seeking for support from the government and non-governmental organisation to support them in their mission of conserving Mau forest complex.
“Our livelihood is basically revolved around forest ecosystem but the previous regimes have always threatened to evict us. We want the Uhuru Kenyatta’s government to recognize us as being important in conserving forest resources,” said Kobei.
He added that unlike other communities who invade the forest for commercial gains and settlements, Ogiek community has never took part in deforestation.
He said his organisation is seeking for supporters to enable it empower and restore the culture and livelihood of the Ogiek in Njoro and other areas in the country through sustainable environmental activities.
“By enhancing environmental conservation in the Mau Complex our people will reclaim back their culture and prevent disasters and diseases, ’’said Kobei.