August 9th – International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024

In a world grappling with environmental crises, the role and value of Indigenous People, specifically Indigenous women, in the preservation and transmission of conservation knowledge cannot be overstated. Indigenous women, often the unsung heroes of their communities, carry the weight of ancestral wisdom and sustainable practices which have been passed down through generations. Their contributions are invaluable, yet frequently overlooked, in the global discourse on environmental conservation.

These women possess an intimate understanding of their natural surroundings, honed through centuries of living in harmony with the land. This knowledge is not merely academic; it is a lived experience that encompasses the intricate balance of ecosystems, the seasonal cycles, and the interdependence of all living things. Their practices, deeply rooted in respect for nature, offer lessons that are critically relevant to today’s environmental challenges.

One notable example of Indigenous women-led conservation in Southern Africa is the work of the Himba women in Namibia, particularly their efforts in managing and conserving the Kunene region’s natural resources. The Himba, a semi-nomadic, pastoralist tribe in northwestern Namibia, have long maintained a sustainable relationship with their environment. The leadership and knowledge of Himba women play a crucial role in this dynamic, ensuring the preservation of both their culture and the biodiversity of their homeland. These women have traditionally held significant responsibilities in their communities that directly impact conservation such as; water management, medicinal plant knowledge, land use and pastoral management. In recent years, the Himba community has increasingly engaged with Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programs, supported by both the Namibian government and international conservation organizations. These programs emphasize the sustainable use of natural resources, with local communities taking the lead in conservation efforts and have had very positive outcomes.

The leadership of Indigenous women in environmental conservation is also evident in their advocacy and activism. Around the world, Indigenous women are at the forefront of movements to protect their lands from exploitation and degradation. They fight against deforestation, mining, and other destructive practices, often at great personal risk. Their activism is not just about protecting their immediate environment but also about challenging the broader systems of power and inequality that drive environmental destruction.

For instance, in the Amazon rainforest, women like Nemonte Nenquimo of the Waorani people have led successful campaigns to protect their territories from oil drilling. Closer to home, the remarkable Hindou Ouma Ibrahim from the Mbororo pastoralist community in Chad has campaigned tirelessly for the recognition of Indigenous women’s rights and their contributions to nature conservation and climate change mitigation. Hindou has taken this fight to the highest levels and now serves as co-chair of the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change and a member of the executive committee of the Indigenous Peoples of Africa Coordinating Committee (IPACC).

Perhaps this leadership is so effective and potent because Indigenous women’s activism is driven by a profound sense of duty to protect their land for future generations, showcasing a form of environmental stewardship that is both powerful and deeply ethical – an approach we can all learn from.

Yet, despite their critical contributions, Indigenous women often face significant challenges and barriers. Patriarchal structures, both within and outside their communities, can limit their influence and access to decision-making processes. Moreover, the marginalization of Indigenous peoples globally means that their voices are frequently ignored in mainstream environmental policies and discussions. This marginalization is compounded by the threat of cultural erosion, as globalization and external pressures erode traditional ways of life. A theme that is particularly relevant this International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples which is focused on Indigenous Peoples living in voluntary isolation.

It is fair to say that efforts are ongoing to address the challenges many Indigenous peoples face, and their representation at key global meetings is improving but there is so much further to go. So as we celebrate Women’s Month here in South Africa let us specifically recognize and support the role of Indigenous women in environmental conservation here and globally. This involves not only protecting their rights and territories but also creating spaces for their voices to be heard in global environmental governance, and directing critical nature finance directly to these women and their communities.

Their deep connection to the land, their sustainable practices, and their resilience in the face of adversity offer valuable lessons for addressing the environmental crises of our time. As we seek solutions to global environmental challenges, we must honour and uplift the voices and contributions of Indigenous women. Their wisdom, rooted in centuries of lived experience, holds the key to a more sustainable and just future for all.