Indigenous communities rely heavily on their immediate natural environments for their day-to-day lives and feel the impact of climate change more significantly. Due to persisting gender roles, women bear a greater responsibility for managing these changes, as they are in charge of securing food and water for their livestock and families while men graze livestock.

In Marsabit, a remarkable movement is taking root. Dubbed “Urbisa” (collecting seeds), women have come together to save their environment and build a sustainable future. As climate change continues to fuel the challenges associated with desertification and land degradation, these women are not only improving their ecosystem but also securing their communities’ futures through empowerment, leadership, and awareness. The people’s traditional sources of income, heavily reliant on pastoralism and subsistence farming, have been increasingly threatened by erratic weather patterns. This has subsequently led to food insecurity and diminishing resources. In this challenging context, women have emerged as key agents of change, harnessing their knowledge and skills to combat environmental degradation.

Their efforts are centred on collecting and preserving acacia tree seeds, a species vital for restoring dryland ecosystems and a common indigenous tree in the area. These trees are renowned for their ability to withstand harsh conditions, improve soil fertility, and provide shade and forage for livestock. By gathering and storing acacia seeds, the women are building seed banks that not only safeguard biodiversity but also create a valuable resource for reforestation efforts and livestock feed.

This change-making initiative began with a local women’s group that recognised the pressing need for action. With guidance from environmental NGOs and local knowledge about the importance of acacia trees, they were trained in seed collection, storage techniques, and their ecological significance. The women learned that by planting acacia seeds, they could revive degraded land, enhance water retention, and improve soil health. This knowledge powered Urbisa.

The process of creating a seed bank is very hands-on. The women venture into the hot, arid landscapes, often walking for long distances to find mature acacia trees. Once suitable trees are identified, seeds are carefully collected, ensuring that they are harvested sustainably. These seeds are then cleaned, sorted, and stored in conditions that preserve their viability. The women also educate their communities about the importance of these seeds, encouraging others to participate in the collection process. The impact of these efforts is multifaceted. By restoring acacia populations, the women are enhancing the resilience of their ecosystems. Acacia trees play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, improving soil structure, and creating microclimates that support other plant species. This, in turn, fosters a more diverse and balanced ecosystem, which is vital for wildlife and agricultural productivity.

Moreover, the seed banks serve as a community resource. Whenever they collect more seeds than needed, the women distribute seeds to local farmers and landowners, promoting reforestation and agroforestry practices. This not only encourages sustainable land use but also empowers local farmers to diversify their crops and improve their livelihoods. The community is beginning to recognise the economic benefits of investing in ecosystem restoration, as healthier land yields better harvests. In addition, beyond environmental benefits, the project has fostered social cohesion among the women involved. 

As they gather to collect seeds and participate in workshops, they form strong bonds, sharing experiences and knowledge. This collaboration has enhanced their confidence and leadership skills, enabling them to advocate for their needs and rights within their communities. The women under Urbisa are beginning to be increasingly recognised as environmental stewards and leaders, challenging traditional gender roles and inspiring future generations, leading to a sustainable future through impact. To address limited resources, ongoing support from NGOs, government agencies, and international partners is crucial. Investing in capacity building, training, and networking opportunities will amplify the women’s efforts and ensure the sustainability of their initiatives.

The story of the women in Marsabit is a testament to the power of grassroots action in combating environmental degradation, inspiring hope in action. Through their commitment to collecting acacia seeds and establishing seed banks, they are not only restoring their dryland ecosystems but also transforming their communities. Their efforts highlight the critical role women play in environmental conservation and underscore the importance of empowering local communities to take charge of their ecological futures.

As we deal with climate change, the lessons from the women of Marsabit and the Urbisa movement offer hope and inspiration to people. By nurturing the land and preserving its biodiversity, these women are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future—one acacia seed at a time.