About Yiaku Laikipiak Trust - YLT
Who We Are
Yiaku Laikipiak Trust (YLT) is a community-based organization founded in the year 2000 and officially registered in 2003 as a Self Help Group under the Societies Act of Kenya. In 2009, it was upgraded into a Community Trust. (YLT) was formed out of the need to address the survival, recognition, and protection of the Yiaku indigenous people and their cultural and natural heritage. The organization focuses on ensuring that indigenous communities are empowered to protect their identity, culture, and environment while improving their livelihoods.
Since its inception, YLT has prioritized:
- Revival and preservation of the Yiaku language
- Protection and conservation of Mukogodo Forest
- Documentation and promotion of Indigenous Knowledge systems
- Sustainable livelihood support for the Yiaku community
- Advocacy for indigenous rights and inclusion in development processes
Who the Yiaku People Are
The Yiaku are a minority indigenous Cushitic community believed to have migrated from Ethiopia in the 14th century and settled in Mukogodo Forest in Laikipia North, Kenya.
They are a small population of approximately 6,000 people who have historically lived in harmony with the forest ecosystem. Traditionally, the Yiaku practiced hunting and gathering, but over time have transitioned mainly into beekeeping, herding, and sustainable use of forest resources.
Their cultural practices are deeply connected to the forest, including sacred sites, ancestral graves, and traditional ecological knowledge that guides conservation and sustainable living.
Our History and Evolution
YLT was established in response to increasing threats facing the Yiaku community, including cultural erosion, loss of language, land pressure, and environmental degradation.
Over the years, the organization has grown from a community self-help initiative into a structured Community Trust working with local, national, and international partners to address issues affecting indigenous peoples.
Its work spans across environmental conservation, human rights advocacy, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.
Our Work
Yiaku Laikipiak Trust implements a wide range of programs, including:
1 Environmental Conservation
– Protection of Mukogodo Forest
– Community-led conservation initiatives
– Promotion of sustainable natural resource use
– Biodiversity protection and restoration
2 Cultural Preservation
– Revival of the Yiaku language
– Documentation of oral traditions and indigenous knowledge
– Promotion of cultural identity and heritage
3 Livelihood Support
– Support for beekeeping and honey production
– Income-generating activities for youth and women
– Sustainable livelihood development programs
4 Livelihood Support
– Community education and awareness programs
– Youth empowerment initiatives
5 Advocacy & Rights
– Promotion of indigenous peoples’ rights
– Advocacy on land and resource governance
– Participation in policy and development dialogue
Our Geographic Scope
YLT works primarily within Mukogodo Forest and surrounding areas in Laikipia County, while also engaging broader indigenous and pastoralist communities in Kenya through advocacy and partnership programs, across the three Counties, Laikipia County, Isiolo County and Marsabit County.
Our Impact
Through our programs, YLT has contributed to:
> Strengthening protection of Mukogodo Forest ecosystem
> Revitalizing indigenous cultural practices and knowledge
> Supporting community livelihoods through beekeeping and conservation
> Enhancing youth participation in development activities
> Strengthening advocacy for indigenous rights and land protection
Our Mission
To promote and protect the cultural, environmental, and socio-economic well-being of the Yiaku people through community-driven development and strategic partnerships.
Our Commitment
Yiaku Laikipiak Trust remains committed to safeguarding the identity, culture, and environment of the Yiaku people while promoting sustainable development that benefits present and future generations.
We continue to work with communities, partners, and stakeholders to ensure that indigenous voices are recognized and included in national and global development processes.
Our Vision
To ensure a thriving indigenous community that lives in harmony with nature while preserving its culture and heritage.