Rooted in Culture, we build resilience through strong governance, sustainable economic livelihood, climate resilience, social movement building and women leadership.
"I was born and raised in Kipsing village, Isiolo County in Northern Kenya, in a community rich with culture but also burdened with practices that often silence women and girls."
Growing up, I witnessed and experienced the deep scars left by harmful traditions such as female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriages, and child-beading. These practices robbed many girls of their childhood, health, and future dreams.
My own journey as a survivor shaped me. Instead of breaking me, it ignited a fire within me—to speak out, to stand tall, and to create pathways for other girls so they would not endure the same pain.
Measuring success through tangible results and meaningful change
I knew from a young age that silence was complicity, and that our communities could embrace cultural pride without sacrificing the dignity and rights of women.
Over the years, I turned my scars into stars by creating safe spaces for girls, mobilizing women's voices, and building movements rooted in indigenous knowledge, justice, and resilience.
Through Samburu Women Trust and the Indigenous Women Council, I have dedicated my life to amplifying the voices of women who are too often left unheard.
"I champion women and girls because I believe every girl deserves the chance to dream, to study, to grow, and to lead—free from violence, fear, or discrimination. When women rise, families, communities, and nations rise with them."- Jane Meriwas, Founder & Visionary Leader
We are an Indigenous women-led organization working among Indigenous communities in Kenya and Africa. Born from the vision of courageous Indigenous women leaders, healers, feminists, and human rights defenders, SWT stands as a movement for justice, equality, and transformation. We are grounded in culture and identity advancing the rights, voices, and leadership of Indigenous women and girls, while nurturing resilience and self- determination across generations.
To champion the rights, leadership, and wellbeing of Indigenous women and girls by strengthening governance, nurturing resilient communities, driving movement building, safeguarding cultural heritage, and promoting sustainable, dignified livelihoods.
A just, inclusive, and safe world where Indigenous women and girls live free from harmful cultural practices, rights violations, discrimination, and fear—thriving in strength, dignity, and pride.
To empower Indigenous women and girls to realize their full potential by enhancing leadership, advancing agency, and amplifying voices—transforming communities through gender equality, climate resilience, and social justice.
We believe that when indigenous women and girls are empowered, entire communities thrive, cultures are safeguarded, future generations inherit dignity, justice, and resilience.
Our programs are shaped by the voices and leadership of indigenous women and girls. We believe that lasting change happens when communities drive their own solutions. Our approach is therefore:
We place indigenous women and girls at the center of decision-making, ensuring programs reflect their realities and aspirations.
We honor indigenous knowledge and traditions, strengthening governance systems that protect both people and heritage.
We integrate governance, economic empowerment, climate resilience, and movement building to create sustainable impact.
We champion justice, dignity, and equality, addressing harmful practices while safeguarding human rights.
We build alliances with communities, governments, and partners to amplify indigenous women's voices on local, national, and global platforms.
At the heart of Samburu Women Trust (SWT) lies a deep commitment to principles that guide our work and relationships:
We honor the inherent humanity, voice, and worth of every Indigenous woman and girl.
We uphold the right of Indigenous women to define their own futures and lead on their own terms.
We stand united in sisterhood, shared purpose, and collective power to dismantle systems of oppression.
We foster mutual respect and care among people, cultures, and the natural world.
Community Ownership We believe that sustainable change is rooted in the wisdom, leadership, and agency of local communities.
We commit to fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity—ensuring no one is left behind.
We build strength, resilience, and collective power through:
Advancing the protection and promotion of Indigenous women's rights and freedoms.
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Promoting women's leadership and participation in sustainable land and natural resource management.
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supporting women's access to resources, skills, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
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Safeguarding traditional knowledge and cultural practices that honor the balance between people and nature.
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Strengthening leadership, governance, and organizational skills among Indigenous women and girls.
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Connecting Indigenous women across Africa to act in solidarity and influence transformative change.
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Through the NAAPU Indigenous Women Fund, providing flexible funding to both formal and non-formal indigenous women led groups often excluded from mainstream funding opportunities.
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Ten years ago, I stood in a dusty meeting room at the heart of our community. The walls were bare, the air still, but within that space stood women wh...
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In less than two weeks, the Indigenous Women Council (IWC) will mark an inspiring milestone—10 years of resilience, hope, and unwavering determinati...
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Fire is more than just flame in the Samburu community. It is life. It is protection. It is tradition. From daily activities to deep spiritual meaning,...
Read MoreWe collaborate with organizations that share our vision for empowering Samburu women and girls. These organizations support our mission through funding, expertise, and collaborative programs.
Exploring the Rich Nature-Based Solutions and Natural Resources that Indigenous Women Protect and Promote.
