Ogiek Peoples’ Development Program (OPDP)

Ogiek Peoples’ Development Program (OPDP) began as an association in 1999 constituting of Ogiek elders, opinion leaders, farmers and professionals who consolidated ideas on how o emancipate the Ogiek Community from  oppression and suppression  imposed by past and present regimes. It later transitioned into a non-profit organization and was  registered in 2001 with Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Board. They focus on land and natural resources rights, good governance and institutional capacity, community identity and participation as well as gender and youth empowerment Currently, their head office is in Nakuru town, Nakuru County but their presence is felt beyond the county. They work in six other counties namely Narok, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kericho and Bungoma They strive towards liberating and changing lives of not only the Ogiek community but also the indigenous ethnic minorities and marginalized communities in Kenya. They collaborate with local and international development partners and other civil society organization to achieve this goal and mission. Their activities are anchored on provisions of the international and conventions and treaties. Equally, they abide by the Constitution of Kenya and other existing laws and policies that govern their work. Equally, they adhere to the regulations put in place by the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Act and meet all the requirements set by Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Board. Mission and Vision Mission: OPDP exists to promote and advocate for the participation, self-determination and human rights of the members of the Ogiek community for sustainable development in Kenya. Vision: An empowered Ogiek community in a Kenyan society that embraces equality and diversity. Overall Goal:To improve and enhance the attainment of  inclusive and of equal opportunity in the economic, social, cultural, and political conditions of the Ogiek community and active participation in the building and sustaining a vibrant Kenyan nation.