5–8 August 2026 | El Boran, Isiolo County, Kenya

The countdown is on!

In just a few days, Indigenous women leaders, pastoralist communities, policymakers, development partners, researchers, youth, and advocates from across Kenya and beyond will gather for the 12th Annual National Indigenous Women Conference 2026. Hosted by Samburu Women Trust in collaboration with the Indigenous Women Council (IWC), NAAPU Indigenous Women Fund, grassroots women's networks, Indigenous Peoples' Organizations, and strategic partners, this year's conference promises to be a transformative platform for dialogue, action, and collective leadership.

Held under the theme "Rangelands and Pastoralists: Lands in Motion, Women as Stewards of Knowledge and the Future," the conference will take place from 5–8 August 2026 at El Boran, Isiolo County, bringing together diverse voices committed to advancing Indigenous women's leadership in natural resource governance, climate action, and sustainable development.

Celebrating Indigenous Leadership in a Landmark Year

The conference coincides with two globally significant milestones: the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP 2026) and the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, commemorated annually on 9 August.
These observances provide an important opportunity to recognize the invaluable contributions of Indigenous women as custodians of biodiversity, protectors of ancestral lands, keepers of traditional knowledge, and leaders of community resilience. Their knowledge and lived experiences continue to shape innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing environmental and social challenges.

Advancing Conversations That Matter

Over four days, participants will engage in high-level discussions, community dialogues, networking sessions, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges centered around four key thematic pillars:
• Rangelands, Livelihoods and Climate Justice – Promoting sustainable pastoralism, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience through Indigenous knowledge and community-led solutions.
• Land Rights, Territory and Self-Determination – Strengthening Indigenous women's access to land, securing tenure rights, and advancing inclusive governance of natural resources.
• Indigenous Women-Led Financing and Economic Justice – Showcasing innovative financing models, community enterprises, and investment opportunities that strengthen women's economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.
• Indigenous Women, Health and Wellbeing – Exploring holistic approaches to health, mental wellbeing, cultural identity, and community resilience while preserving Indigenous knowledge systems.
These conversations will contribute to practical recommendations that strengthen policies, partnerships, and investments supporting Indigenous communities and pastoralist livelihoods.

A Platform for Learning, Partnership and Action

The Annual National Indigenous Women Conference has become one of Kenya's leading platforms for Indigenous women to influence policy, share experiences, celebrate achievements, and build strategic partnerships.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
• Exchange Indigenous knowledge and best practices.
• Strengthen partnerships across government, civil society, academia, and development organizations.
• Explore innovative community-led climate solutions.
• Showcase Indigenous enterprises, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihood initiatives.
• Celebrate the leadership and resilience of Indigenous women and girls.

Why This Conference Matters

Healthy rangelands sustain millions of people, livestock, wildlife, and ecosystems across Kenya and the wider region. Indigenous women have managed these landscapes for generations, drawing on traditional knowledge that continues to guide sustainable resource management, conflict resolution, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation.
As climate change, land degradation, and socio-economic pressures intensify, investing in Indigenous women's leadership has never been more important. Their voices, innovations, and lived experiences are essential to shaping resilient communities and a sustainable future.

Be Part of the Movement

Whether you are a policymaker, researcher, community leader, development partner, youth advocate, donor, journalist, or supporter of Indigenous rights, your participation can help amplify the voices of Indigenous women and strengthen collective action for resilient rangelands and thriving pastoralist communities.
Join us from 5–8 August 2026 at El Boran, Isiolo County, as we celebrate Indigenous leadership, strengthen partnerships, and chart a shared vision for the future of our lands and communities.

Together, let us honor Indigenous knowledge, celebrate women's leadership, and build a future where healthy rangelands, empowered communities, and climate justice go hand in hand.


Our Lands. Our knowledge. Our Future. Our Voices. Our Power.