Hundreds hold demos in Isiolo to defend community conservancies
The peaceful demonstration, which drew participants from across Isiolo County, focused on defending the Biliqo Bulesa and Cherab Community Conservancies.
In a display of community solidarity, hundreds of residents marched through Isiolo town on Monday to protest the recent High Court ruling that suspended operations at two local conservancies, declaring their unwavering support for the conservation model that has transformed their lives.
The peaceful demonstration, which drew participants from across Isiolo County, focused on defending the Biliqo Bulesa and Cherab Community Conservancies. Protesters carried placards highlighting the vital role these institutions play in local development, education, and environmental protection.
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"These conservancies represent more than just conservation - they are the backbone of our community's development," said Golicha Karayu, a community leader from Biliqo. "Through them, we've built schools, provided emergency medical services, and created sustainable livelihoods for our youth."
The recent court ruling has already begun to show its impact. Over 100 employees have lost their jobs, including rangers who were instrumental in wildlife protection and community security.
The conservancies' annual carbon credit revenue of Sh40 million, which funded crucial development projects, has been suspended.
Education has been particularly hard hit. The conservancies had been providing millions in bursaries to vulnerable students and supporting vocational training programmes.
"My daughter is in university thanks to conservancy support," said Fatuma Ali, a demonstrator. "What happens to students like her now?"
The demonstration culminated in a resolution read by community elders, stating their determination to maintain the conservancies despite the legal challenges.
They emphasised that the conservation model has successfully balanced environmental protection with community development needs.
Local leaders announced plans to pursue legal options to overturn the ruling. "We will exhaust every avenue available to protect these institutions that have become central to our community's progress," said Mzee Adan Denge, a community elder from Merti.
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