Isiolo, Kenya| In a landmark ruling, the Isiolo Environmental Court has halted the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) from establishing conservancies in Chari and Cherab wards, citing inadequate public participation.
The court found that NRT failed to engage local communities effectively in the decision-making process, violating constitutional principles of inclusivity and transparency.
Court Upholds Community Rights
The court’s decision underscores the legal requirement for full community involvement in projects affecting land use and livelihoods.
According to the ruling, any conservation initiative must prioritize meaningful engagement with the affected communities to ensure fair representation of their interests.
“The establishment of conservancies significantly impacts land use, livelihoods, and traditional grazing rights. Such decisions cannot be made unilaterally without the proper involvement of local stakeholders,” the court stated.
Divided Reactions in Isiolo
The ruling has elicited mixed reactions among residents, conservationists, and local leaders.
Activists and community members who opposed NRT’s expansion welcomed the decision as a victory for public participation and indigenous land rights.
Hassan Shano, a community rights activist, hailed the court’s verdict, stating, “For too long, decisions affecting our land have been made without our consent. This ruling affirms our right to be involved in discussions that shape our future.”
However, supporters of NRT, including members of existing conservancies, expressed disappointment, arguing that conservancies bring economic benefits, job opportunities, and conservation efforts that uplift local communities.
“We have seen tangible benefits from NRT initiatives, including employment, improved security, and conservation programs that support sustainable livelihoods,” said Halkano Gollo of Bulesa Biliko Conservancy.
Similarly, Abikar Mohamed from Leparua Conservancy warned that the decision could disrupt ongoing projects that communities rely on.
Possible Appeal and NGO Involvement Allegations
In response to the ruling, NRT and its supporters have indicated plans to appeal the decision, arguing that the conservancies are critical for biodiversity conservation and economic development in the region.
They warn that stopping these projects could hinder conservation efforts and undermine livelihoods that have come to depend on them.
Meanwhile, concerns have emerged over allegations that certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) may be influencing legal opposition to conservancies in the region.
Some stakeholders have raised questions about the motives behind the legal challenge, suggesting that external interests could be at play.
Implications of the Ruling
The ruling sets a significant legal precedent for conservation projects across Kenya, reinforcing the constitutional mandate for public participation in land-related decisions.
As the case potentially moves to an appeal, it raises broader questions about the balance between conservation efforts and the rights of indigenous communities.
For now, the decision marks a turning point in how conservation programs are implemented in northern Kenya, emphasizing the need for transparency, dialogue, and genuine community involvement in shaping the region’s environmental and economic future.
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