In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Ogiek Indigenous community at Sasimwani in Narok North, Narok county in Kenya have been victims of forced eviction despite numerous court cases. The eviction have left them in a state of distress and despair. This eviction, orchestrated by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and supported by the police and chiefs, has resulted in the looting and demolition of their homes. The repercussions of this inhumane act extend beyond material loss, as it has disrupted the lives indigenous youth, boys and girls who are Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates, forced Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) candidates to return to homelessness, and all this during a trying rainy season. The actions taken by the government of Kenya and the demands for bribes from the police are unacceptable and demand immediate attention! We DEMAND Justice!
In a stark contradiction to their rhetoric of empowering the youth as future leaders, the recent eviction of the Ogiek community at Sasimwani in Narok North on 2nd November 2023 by the government of Kenya has exposed a troubling reality. This action, which has rendered families homeless and created an unjust environment, directly undermines the potential and aspirations of the very youth the government claims to champion for. It is disheartening to witness a government betray its obligations towards the youth and jeopardize their future prospects.
Empty Promises
The government’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of the youth is empty rhetoric when their actions contradict their words. By evicting communities and rendering them homeless, the government is not only disregarding the fundamental rights of its citizens but also hindering the progress of future leaders. The youth deserve an enabling environment that supports their dreams, not one that demolishes their hopes and aspirations.
Disrupting Education and Opportunities
The eviction of the Ogiek community has not only stripped them of their homes but has also disrupted the education and opportunities of countless young individuals. By forcing students to halt their exams and leaving others without a place to call home, the government is actively impeding the educational and personal development of the youth. This unjust and disruptive environment robs them of the stability and resources necessary to build a better future for themselves and their communities.
Breaking the Cycle of Progress
Creating an unjust environment not only affects the current generation of youth but also perpetuates a cycle of inequality and limited opportunities for future generations. By destroying the hopes and dreams of today’s youth, the government is effectively hindering progress for the entire nation. It is imperative that the government recognizes the long-term consequences of their actions and prioritizes the well-being and future prospects of the youth.
Demanding Accountability and Change
As concerned citizens and members of the aggrieved community, it is our duty to hold the government accountable for their actions and demand the necessary changes to protect the future of our youth. We must raise our voices against such injustices and advocate for policies that uplift and empower the youth, rather than tearing them down. By holding the government accountable, we strive to create a future where promises made to the youth are fulfilled and their potential is nurtured.
The government’s actions in evicting the Ogiek community contradict the very principles they espouse regarding the youth as future leaders. It is disheartening to witness the destruction of their dreams and the creation of an unjust environment. As a collective, we must demand accountability, advocate for change, and support the affected youth in rebuilding their lives. Let us work together to create a future where the government’s promises align with their actions, and the youth are given the platform they need to truly become the leaders of tomorrow.
#IStandwiththeOgiek #LandJusticeNow! #WeareIndigenous