The Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) has launched the NRT Youth in Conservation Caucus, heralding a new era in inclusive conservation.
Contextualizing the youth initiative within the broader framework of inclusive conservation efforts, the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) continues its commitment to fostering diverse leadership by launching the NRT Youth Conservation Caucus.
Following the successful implementation of the Women in Conservation Caucus, NRT Conservancies Chapter last year, today marks a significant milestone with establishing the Youth in Conservation Caucus, NRT Conservancies Chapter.
A New Chapter in Community Conservation
As a leader in community conservation, the NRT has been instrumental in transforming lives and landscapes in Kenya and Uganda.
NRT’s Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI) strategy has successfully integrated women and youth into conservation efforts, promoting gender equality and amplifying diverse community voices.
Historically, the NRT’s governance centered around the Council of Elders. Each conservancy’s Chairperson of the Board represented their community, advocating for their interests. This structure provided a solid foundation for community representation.
Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders
The Youth in Conservation Caucus has emerged as a platform for young leaders from NRT member conservancies. It engages youth in critical decision-making around natural resources, community development, and governance, sparking a passion for leadership in conservation’s next generation.
“I am deeply honored to serve as the youth chairperson for Garbatulla Conservancy,” says Sadia Hassan Tache. “The NRT’s Youth in Conservation Caucus will empower us to grow, lead, and contribute to society. Our elected representatives will ensure our voices resonate, aligning with the NRT Conservancies Chapter to forge our collective path.”
The Youth in Conservation Caucus leadership was elected through a transparent election model that reflects NRT’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.
Youth drawn from Isiolo and Marsabit conservancies participated in a democratic process of electing their leaders, filling roles such as Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, and Assistant Secretary.
The elected team will be equipped with leadership training and capacity building to help them form the executive committee, mandated with steering their duties with conviction.
Uniting for a Broader Impact
The Youth in Conservation Caucus transcends local boundaries and aims to amplify the collective voice of youth at a regional scale. In partnership with local stakeholders, the caucus will shape conservation-related policies and practices that directly affect community well-being.
“The NRT Youth in Conservation Caucus’s inauguration boldly affirms our dedication to empowering youth in conservation,” states Tom Lalampa, CEO of NRT. “With the youth at the helm, NRT will forge lasting benefits for the environment and the communities we support. The Youth in Conservation Caucus is committed to driving innovation, advocacy, and actionable steps towards a sustainable future for all.”
By empowering the next generation of conservation leaders, the NRT Youth in Conservation Caucus will ensure that the future of conservation remains in capable hands, fostering a sustainable and inclusive approach to environmental stewardship.
Nrt is best of youths is this country in isiolo