Sengwer Community Presents Second Edition of “Bicultural Protocol” to Elgeyo Marakwet County Government
The Sengwer community, represented by Chairman Paul Kibor Kitum and Elias Kimaiyo, presented the second edition of their book, “Bicultural Protocol,” to the Elgeyo Marakwet County Secretary, Paul Chemotut, on behalf of Governor Wisly Rotich. This significant event took place today in Embobut forest, highlighting the Sengwer’s rich cultural heritage, traditional leadership, and sustainable practices in forest conservation.
Chairman Kitum emphasized the importance of the book in educating the county government about the Sengwer way of life. “We want them to understand how we live, our traditions, and our connection to the Embobut forest. This book is a vital tool for protecting our culture and environment, as we are committed to conserving the forests that are our home,” he stated.
The second edition delves into pressing issues faced by the Sengwer community, including historical land injustices and evictions. Kimaiyo reiterated the significance of the publication, noting, “This book discusses the history of the Sengwer people, our resources, and how we utilize them. In light of the climate change crisis, we have taken this initiative to document our indigenous knowledge and practices, urging the county government to adapt our insights for future projects in our area.”
The “Bicultural Protocol” not only aims to inform the county government but also serves as a bridge between the Sengwer community and various stakeholders, including researchers and investors interested in environmental conservation. “Indigenous knowledge has often gone undocumented, and we want our practices and experiences to be recognized and adopted for the benefit of the Sengwer and the environment,” Kimaiyo added.
Secretary Chemotut expressed gratitude for the presentation, noting that the book serves as an essential communication tool between the government, conservation agencies, and other stakeholders. “This document will facilitate dialogue and understanding regarding the Sengwer community’s contributions to conservation efforts. It is a crucial step toward acknowledging their unique relationship with the forest,” he remarked.
The governor’s office has already provided the Sengwer community with resources, including seedlings for planting around the forest perimeter. Chemotut commended the Sengwer for their commitment to environmental stewardship, highlighting the tree nursery initiative that will supply seedlings to the Cherangany hills, vital for water catchment areas.
As the Sengwer community continues to advocate for the registration of their forest under the county government, their efforts to document and promote their culture and conservation practices through the “Bicultural Protocol” stand as a testament to their resilience and dedication to preserving both their heritage and the environment.
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