Kenya: Masai indigenous people adapting to climate change

Kimaren Riamit (August 2010)

Where: Bonn 2010: 13th AWG KP & 11th AWG LCA

Kimaren Riamit, from Tebtebba, representing indigenous people in Kenya, says "the chances for indigenous people to be wiped out are real". He defines what makes people indigenous and discusses the impacts of climate change on hunter/gatherers and pastoralists. As they are on the frontline, "They are not only victims but also part of the solution". He looks at several coping mechanisms they have developed in their adaptation, and considers how this could be included in the negotiations. He explains how nomadic pastoralism has evolved to follow the movement of water. To do this, they need an open space. He argues for an overarching human rights approach - and common but differentiated responsibility.