A Lensational convention highlighted the crucial role of indigenous knowledge in building resilience and addressing the climate crisis. Themed “Matriarchs of Climate Resilience: Indigenous People at the Heart of Climate Change Policy Dialogue and Exhibition,” the meeting brought together diverse stakeholders, including climate experts, representatives of marginalized communities, storytellers, and humanitarian organizations.
Through photographs by Irene Saitoti and Claire Metito, the stories of Maasai matriarchs in Narok were brought to life. A showcase of how the vulnerable communities at the frontline of climate change impacts are struggling to build resilience and adapt to the challenges amidst little to no help. The images showcased the challenges these women face as they navigate the intricate complexities of climate change while confronting the challenges of their social identities.
The photo exhibition celebrated the resilience of Indigenous women facing climate change, prompting experts and community leaders to emphasize the importance of connecting ground conditions with climate agreements and discussions. This was seen as the only way to address climate change realistically, ensuring adaptation efforts are locally driven and climate finance reaches those most at risk.
The need for increased investment in preserving and promoting Indigenous knowledge was underscored, recognizing the disconnect between the most vulnerable and those discussing climate finance, mitigation, and adaptation. Photographer Claire expressed her honor in showcasing the challenges her village mates face.
“Through the learning platforms provided by Lensational and the expertise of climate scientist Patricia Nying’uro, we were surprised to learn that what we have normalized as affecting us is climate change impacts,” she said.
Patricia Nying’uro, from the Kenya Meteorological Department, acknowledged that direct interaction with women on the front lines of climate change in a country categorized by the IPCC as among the most vulnerable has been a profound eye-opener for scientists and policymakers.
“Global decisions impacting national policy development are heavily influenced by scientific findings, but are they truly fair and representative if they fail to incorporate local and specific nuances of climate change, especially through a gendered lens? When local voices and intricacies concerning climate change are not heard, particularly without a gendered lens?” she questioned.
Ndinda Maithya, Country Engagement Manager at Hivos, emphasized the need to acknowledge that communities are already undertaking climate action in building resilience without support or financing, suggesting that climate finance should focus on scaling up these existing initiatives.
She also urged a move away from bureaucratic processes to make climate finance more accessible to grassroots communities who are most vulnerable.
Emily Wanja, Director of Africa Programs at Doc Society, highlighted the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work on women in the Maasai community, making them more susceptible to climate-related challenges. She stressed the need to elevate women’s roles as key to ensuring their integral involvement in both adaptation strategies and solutions implementation in the fight against climate change.
