Koija Community Conservancy – FPIC Engagement

In July, LCA led a comprehensive six-day Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) process in Koija Community Conservancy, centered on a proposed investment by Elewana Collection in the Koija Starbed Lodge and the potential inclusion of rhinos through the Kenya Rhino Range Expansion (KRRE) project.

Community Engagement

The process began with conservancy-level consultations involving the Community Land Management Committee (CLMC), Grazing Committee, youth and women leaders, Ageset elders, local chiefs, and Nyumba Kumi representatives. These were followed by village-level forums across all Koija zones, including the diaspora cluster in Sukutan.

The community actively engaged in discussions and granted their consent for the CLMC to move forward with deeper engagement with the investor.

Upholding Rights & Transparency

The FPIC process is a foundational element of community-led conservation, ensuring all proposed developments are inclusive, transparent, and aligned with local values. It protects the community’s right to make informed decisions about their land and future.

LCA will return to the community to share investor feedback and present next steps, maintaining transparency throughout the process.

This is a strong example of how consent and collaboration are key to sustainable conservation and investment.