By Leticia Ahirirwe
Op_Ed
Yesterday, the world marked the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, a day that calls our attention to the rights, cultures, knowledge and contributions of Indigenous People across the world. Beyond the celebrations, however, the day should challenge us to ask an important question: Are we truly listening to Indigenous People when making decisions about the land, forests, water and natural resources on which we all depend?
Indigenous People have lived in close relationship with nature for generations. Their knowledge of forests, soils, water sources, traditional crops, medicinal plants and ecosystems has been passed down through generations. Yet, despite this valuable knowledge, Indigenous communities continue to face threats to their land, livelihoods, cultures and ways of life.
The climate crisis has made this even more urgent. As governments and communities search for solutions to climate change, Indigenous knowledge should not be treated as an outdated tradition. It is a valuable source of knowledge for building resilient communities and protecting ecosystems. Indigenous communities have long practiced forms of conservation that promote sustainable use of natural resources and respect the balance between people and nature.
In Africa, where communities are increasingly experiencing droughts, floods, food insecurity and water scarcity, there is much to learn from Indigenous approaches to environmental stewardship. Traditional knowledge can complement scientific research and modern climate solutions, particularly when communities are given space to lead and participate in decisions affecting their lives.
However, meaningful participation requires more than inviting Indigenous representatives to meetings. It requires recognizing their rights to land, resources, culture and self-determination.
Development projects that affect forests, rivers, wetlands, agricultural land and other ecosystems must involve the communities who depend on these resources. Consultation should not be a box to tick after decisions have already been made. Communities should have access to information, meaningful participation and the ability to influence decisions that affect their homes and livelihoods.
Indigenous women deserve particular attention. Women often carry deep knowledge about food systems, seeds, medicinal plants, water management and community livelihoods. At the same time, they can experience disproportionate impacts when land and natural resources are degraded or taken away. When forests disappear or water sources become scarce, women and girls often bear a greater burden of collecting water, securing food and caring for households.
Protecting Indigenous rights is therefore also a gender and climate justice issue. We cannot speak about climate justice while ignoring the communities that have protected ecosystems for generations. We cannot claim to be building sustainable development while excluding the people whose knowledge can help us achieve it.
This year’s observance should therefore move beyond cultural celebrations. It should be a reminder that Indigenous Peoples are not simply custodians of the past; they are essential partners in building our future.
Governments, civil society organizations, development partners and the private sector must create meaningful spaces for Indigenous voices in environmental and development decision-making. Their knowledge should be respected, documented and integrated into climate adaptation and conservation strategies—with their consent and leadership.
As we celebrate Indigenous People, let us celebrate more than their cultures. Let us defend their rights, protect their lands, value their knowledge and ensure that development does not come at the cost of their dignity and livelihoods.
The future of our planet cannot be sustainable if it leaves Indigenous People behind. Climate justice must include Indigenous justice.
