The Paradox of Youth: A Broken Promise

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