Members of the Oldonyonyokie Group Ranch are raising alarm over a controversial land deal they believe could undermine their land rights and long-term ownership.
Frustration is mounting within the community, with claims that certain elites within the ranch are pushing for agreements that do not align with the broader interests of the landowners.
At the heart of the dispute is a deal involving Soils for the Future Africa, a project that some members say is being rushed through without proper consultation or transparency.
A primary concern is the carbon project, with members pointing out that some have not even been given the terms of the agreement, and the legitimacy of the project remains in question.
In an attempt to sidestep genuine consultation, the leaders reportedly organised a football tournament for the youth, which they intended to use as a platform for speeches, calling it “public participation.”
However, the youth, now more aware of such tactics, rejected the effort and refused to be deceived.
There are also mounting concerns over the involvement of landowners who have not yet formalised their land titles, raising questions about the fairness of signing an agreement under these circumstances.
As the dispute intensifies, broader issues regarding land management, the balance of power within the community, and external interests prioritising profits over the welfare of the landowners are coming to the fore.
Soils for the Future Africa, a continent-wide initiative focusing on restoring and sustaining Africa’s soils for improved food security and climate resilience, has become a focal point in this debate.
The project is now facing accusations of pushing an agenda without fully engaging with the community members, who claim their rights and interests are being sidelined.
