First Global Gathering Of Indigenous People Fighting Conservation To Issue Landmark Declaration

by · SCOOP

September 25, 2026

A unique gathering of Indigenous people impacted by conservation will issue a historic statement this Friday at a press conference in Nairobi, denouncing the devastating impact that the conservation industry, carbon offset projects and government policies are having on their lives, lands and rights.

Press conference:

Where: Kiboko Room, Maanzoni Lodge, Mombasa Road, Athi River, Kenya
When: 11am East Africa Time, Friday September 25, 2026.
Online: https://rebrand.ly/olonpressconference

The declaration, to be signed by Indigenous representatives from 16 countries across Africa, Asia and the Americas, is expected to demand respect for Indigenous rights, an end to evictions and the recognition of Indigenous peoples as the best conservationists.

The Our Land, Our Nature (https://www.ourlandournature.org/nairobi) gathering has brought together — for the first time — Indigenous representatives from around the world who are fighting against land theft in the name of conservation. Their common experience exposes the human cost of fortress conservation and carbon markets. They also presented Indigenous-led alternatives.

Today, at least 3 million Indigenous people across Africa, Asia and the Americas are paying the price for conservation — with their land and with their lives. Those who resist face intimidation, criminalization, violence and, in some cases, murder.

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At the same time, governments and conservation organizations are expanding Protected Areas, while carbon markets are creating new pressures on Indigenous territories.

Around 60 Indigenous people from the following countries have come together for the unprecedented event:

  • Argentina (Qom and Mbya Guarani peoples)
  • Bolivia (Uchupiamona Indigenous people)
  • Botswana (Gana and Tshasi people)
  • Cambodia (Bunong Indigenous people)
  • Cameroon (Baka people)
  • Colombia (Pasto people)
  • Ecuador (Kichwa people))
  • India (Jenu Kuruba people)
  • Kenya (Ogiek, Samburu/ Maa people)
  • Nepal (Tharu people)
  • Peru (Kichwa people)
  • Republic of Congo (Baka)
  • Tanzania (Maasai people)
  • Thailand (Plong Karen people)
  • Uganda (Mosopisyek/Kalenjin sub-group)
  • United States (Diné and Dakota nations)

Note:

This unique gathering was organized by Conservation Solutions Afrika and Survival International.

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