This week, KAYESE—together with its dedicated regional partners—will convene the Regional Pastoralist Youth Gathering in Moroto, a landmark event bringing together 150 pastoralist youth leaders, herders, and young agro-pastoralists from across Eastern Africa. The gathering will serve as a powerful space for connection, collaboration, and action among young people who play a vital role in shaping the future of pastoralist communities.
A Platform for Youth Voices
Pastoralist youth are at the frontline of some of the region’s most pressing challenges—from climate change and environmental degradation to shifting socio-economic pressures. Yet, they are also key innovators, cultural custodians, and champions of sustainable land use.
This gathering is designed to elevate their voices, ensuring that the experiences, ideas, and aspirations of young pastoralists take center stage in regional dialogues. Through interactive sessions, storytelling, learning exchanges, and leadership conversations, participants will have the opportunity to share lived realities and co-create pathways for a more resilient future.
Strengthening Solidarity Across Eastern Africa
Moroto will become a hub of regional solidarity, welcoming youth from diverse pastoral communities across Eastern Africa. By fostering cross-border learning and collaboration, the event aims to strengthen bonds among young leaders who are navigating similar environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Participants will explore ways to work collectively to defend rangelands, uphold cultural identity, and enhance the resilience of pastoralist livelihoods—now and for generations to come.
Focus Areas of the Gathering
Climate Change & Resilience
Discussions will focus on the realities of climate change, shifting weather patterns, and their impact on pastoralist systems. Youth will explore adaptive strategies that enhance resilience and protect rangeland ecosystems.
Climate Justice
The gathering will unpack issues of equity, fairness, and rights, highlighting the need for climate justice for communities that contribute least to climate change but bear its heaviest burdens.
Sustainable Pastoralism
Participants will engage in conversations on sustainable land management, indigenous knowledge, and innovative practices that support the long-term viability of pastoralist livelihoods.
Youth Leadership & Collective Action
The event aims to inspire coordinated action across the region by strengthening leadership capacities and building networks of passionate, informed, and committed young pastoralists.
Safeguarding Cultures, Rangelands & Livelihoods
At its core, the Regional Pastoralist Youth Gathering is about protecting what matters most—the land that sustains millions, the cultural heritage of pastoralist peoples, and the dignity and future of pastoralist livelihoods. By empowering youth, the gathering aims to promote sustainable solutions rooted in community wisdom, innovation, and shared responsibility.