ILEPA: Championing Indigenous Rights and Climate Action

A Journey of Resilience and Impact

Members of the ILEPA Group

Indigenous Livelihoods Enhancement Partners (ILEPA) has been at the forefront of advocating for indigenous land rights, environmental conservation, climate action, and sustainable development. Based in Narok County, Kenya, ILEPA embodies its Maa name, meaning “to arise” or “ascend,” by empowering pastoralist communities to actively participate in policy discussions and shape their future.

Prestigious Equator Prize Recognition

In 2024, ILEPA received the esteemed Equator Prize, awarded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to recognize outstanding community-led initiatives that drive sustainable development through nature-based solutions. Since 2002, this global award has honored organizations that demonstrate exceptional impact in biodiversity protection, climate resilience, and poverty reduction.

Women of ILEPA Group pose for a photo

“This award is a dedication to the struggles and triumphs of Indigenous Peoples toward self-determination and environmental stewardship,” stated Kimaren Ole Riamit, ILEPA’s Executive Director. The recognition is not just an achievement for ILEPA but a collective win for indigenous communities across Kenya and Africa.

The award announcement took place on August 9, 2024, followed by an official celebration at the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Cali, Colombia, on October 26, 2024. This recognition amplifies ILEPA’s work on a global platform, enabling knowledge exchange and scaling up of successful conservation models.

Members of Ilepa receive their Certificate from Ms Nancy, Country Programme Manager
GEF Small Grants Programme.

ILEPA’s success stems from its integrated approach, combining traditional knowledge with modern conservation strategies. The organization’s core programs include:

• Human Rights and Governance — Advocating for land rights and policy reforms.
• Environment and Climate Change — Promoting climate adaptation strategies.
• Research and Documentation — Amplifying indigenous voices through data and storytelling.
• Livelihood Support — Enhancing economic opportunities for pastoralist communities.
• Internship and Youth Engagement — Cultivating future indigenous leaders.
• Maji Moto Resource Center — Providing a community hub for knowledge sharing and advocacy.

By aligning its initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — notably Goal 13 (Climate Action), Goal 15 (Life on Land), and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) — ILEPA is making a lasting impact both locally and globally.

Strategic Partnerships Driving Change

ILEPA’s journey has been strengthened by invaluable partnerships. A key contributor to its success has been UNDP’s Small Grants Programme (SGP), which supported ILEPA’s early projects, including the construction of a water pan and wind-powered water pumping system. These foundational efforts laid the groundwork for continued collaboration in environmental resilience and indigenous empowerment.

Ms Evelyne, UNDP Kenya Head of Environment Resilience Portfolio speaks at the ceremony

Ms. Evelyne Koech, Team Leader at UNDP’s Nature-Based Solutions and Environmental Resilience Team, commended ILEPA’s innovative efforts: “ILEPA’s approach to integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices is exemplary and has catapulted the Maji Moto community onto the global stage.”

Transforming Indigenous Communities

Through ILEPA’s advocacy, indigenous communities have gained land security, improved access to resources, and strengthened governance structures. Community members have leveraged their newfound knowledge to secure land tenure rights, engage in conservation efforts, and enhance economic opportunities.

A local beneficiary expressed gratitude for ILEPA’s impact: “Previously, we were unsure how to claim and conserve the Maji Moto land. Thanks to ILEPA, the land was reclaimed, and we can now productively utilize it. Our families feel secure, and we can plan for the future.”

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

As ILEPA continues to champion indigenous rights, climate resilience, and sustainable development, the Equator Prize serves as both recognition and motivation to expand its impact. The organization’s work underscores the power of grassroots movements in driving transformative change.

ILEPA’s call to action is clear: Rise, act, and make a difference.

About the Author

Sheila Kimani is a Strategic Partnerships and Digital Communications Associate at UNDP Kenya.