STOP EVICTIONS OF THE OGIEK IN KENYA

The International Land Coalition (ILC) is deeply concerned about the ongoing Ogiek of Maasai Mau eviction crisis, which poses a severe threat to the rights and well-being of the Indigenous communities living in the Mau Forest region. These Indigenous communities have lived in the Mau Forest for generations, forming an integral part of their cultural heritage and livelihoods. They have a deep connection to the environment and have contributed to the conservation of the forest for centuries. The current eviction crisis threatens not only their rights but also their very way of life and it demands urgent attention.

We extend a heartfelt plea to all parties involved, including the Kenyan government, to address the Ogiek of Maasai Mau eviction crisis with a rights-based and inclusive approach. This would mean:

• Suspending the ongoing process of forceful evictions and demolitions until the relevant stakeholders and government entities have fully implemented the two judgments delivered by the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights
• Take measures, in consultation with the Ogiek to expedite the implementation of the two judgments rendered by the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, 2022, in favor of the Ogiek community.
• Ensure that the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) is required as a way of engaging the Ogiek community before any decisions are made regarding land use and conservation efforts in the Mau Forest.The voices and perspectives of the Ogiek should be valued and taken into account.
• Efforts to conserve and restore the Mau Forest should be undertaken in a manner that respects the traditional land management practices of the Ogiek, and promotes the sustainable use of the land for the benefit of all, including future generations.
• Dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms should be established to address disputes and grievances related to land tenure and resource management in the Mau Forest.