Ogiek Community Opposes Mau Forest Fencing Plan, Cites Environmental and Cultural Concerns

Mau, Bomet, Jan 28 – Members of the Ogiek community living along the South West Mau forest have strongly opposed a proposed plan by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to fence off the forest, arguing that it threatens both their cultural heritage and the environment.

William Koros, Secretary General of the Ogiek Independent Council of South West Mau, expressed deep concern over the move, stating it would infringe on the community’s rights and disrupt their lives. Koros emphasized that the Ogiek, known as forest custodians, have for generations safeguarded the ecosystem, which also serves as their ancestral home.

“This proposal disregards our rights and way of life. Claims that fencing is necessary to protect the forest are unfounded, as we have sustainably coexisted with it for centuries. The fence would also block access to our sacred shrines and disrupt our livelihoods,” said Koros.

During a meeting held at Kusumek cutline, members of the Ogiek community highlighted the dangers posed by the proposed solar electric fence, which is set to stretch over 100 kilometers from Ararwet to Kapkembu. They warned that the fence not only threatens their cultural and spiritual practices but also endangers the safety of their children and disrupts their daily lives.

“The fence poses a direct danger to our children, who could be harmed by the electricity, and will cut us off from resources we rely on for our survival,” said Simon Kones, a community member.

The fencing project is part of a conservation initiative by the Kenya Forest Service in collaboration with Rhino Ark Charitable Trust, the County Governments of Nakuru and Bomet, and the Initiative for Sustainable Landscapes (ISLA). However, many in the community feel excluded from the planning process.

While the forest conservation program aims to curb deforestation and protect biodiversity, the Ogiek community contends that their exclusion from decision-making undermines their role as stewards of the land.

“Fencing is not conservation if it marginalizes the people who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Without our involvement, these initiatives are misguided,” said Koros.

The Ogiek have pointed to a ruling by the East African Court of Justice, which affirmed their rights to ancestral lands within the Mau Forest. Community leaders argue that fencing the forest violates the court’s directive, which instructed the government to restore their access and ensure their rights are respected.

“This is not just about our survival—it’s about honoring the environment. The forest is our life, and without it, we cannot exist. The government and its partners must work with us, not against us,” Koros added.

Seeking a Balanced Solution

As the dispute escalates, the Ogiek have vowed to challenge the fencing plan in court, asserting that conservation efforts must integrate the voices and expertise of indigenous communities. They are calling on stakeholders to visit the forest, engage with them directly, and adopt a collaborative approach to ensure the protection of both the forest and their heritage.

“We want sustainable solutions that protect the forest and recognize our role as its guardians. A fence that excludes us is not the answer. The world must understand that conservation is strongest when it embraces human and environmental needs together,” said Koros.

The South West Mau forest is not only home to the Ogiek but also a vital water catchment area, supporting millions of people and rich biodiversity across Kenya. The ongoing standoff highlights the urgent need for inclusive conservation strategies that balance ecological preservation with the rights of indigenous communities.