LCA Participates in National Conservancies Leaders’ Policy Conference & KWCA AGM 2025

This July, Laikipia Conservancies Association (LCA) took part in a milestone event that brought together over 230 conservancy leaders from across Kenya , the National Conservancies Leaders’ Policy Conference and the 11th KWCA Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Focus on Carbon Markets and Community Knowledge

One of the major themes of the conference was the growing interest and complexity around carbon markets. With many communities still navigating the technicalities of carbon trading, the conference served as a critical platform to bridge the knowledge gap between carbon developers and conservancies. Participants discussed the risks, opportunities, and the importance of community-driven decision-making in carbon initiatives.

Strengthening Governance Through New Leadership

The KWCA AGM also featured the election of a new National Conservancies Council (NCC), which will serve for a three-year term. This body plays a central role in governance, representing landscapes across Kenya and helping to implement the KWCA 2030 Strategic Plan.

As part of this leadership transition, Magdalene Tayiana Nkaso from Naibunga Central, LCA’s nominee to the National Conservancies Women Forum, was elected as the Forum’s Chairperson and will also represent the region on the NCC. Additionally, Mathew Naiputari will represent Laikipia on the NCC, ensuring continued advocacy and visibility for Laikipia conservancies at the national level.

A Call for Inclusive Leadership

Despite growing strides in conservancy development, gender representation remains a notable gap in leadership structures. The newly elected NCC has committed to developing strategies to promote more inclusive governance, ensuring that women and youth have a greater voice in conservancy leadership moving forward.

LCA remains committed to engaging in national policy spaces and ensuring that the voices of community conservancies in Laikipia are represented in shaping the future of conservation in Kenya.