COP27: Pokot woman makes her voice heard on effects of climate change
Many visitors have descended into Sharm el Sheikh for the COP. For some, this is just another conference on climate talks being held in the desert which has attracted many leaders and influential people from all over the world.
There are also “the small people” who also desire to be heard. They represent some of the small indigenous communities from remote parts of the world. Though they are few, they stand out from the COP crowd at the event Venue with their colorful traditional clothing.
You can hardly hear the delegates move and it isn’t just because most of them are wearing sports shoes, but because most of the walking areas are covered by large carpets.
Jennifer Kibon a resident of Tangulbei in Baringo County, is an exception as her traditional attire announces her presence as she walks. The small metal plates on her belt knock against each other to create a continuous chime. It is barely audible above the continuous chatter and noise in the convention.
However, her large traditional beaded Pokot necklace and headband of beads stand out and attract attention.
As she is walking, an Egyptian lady asks to take a picture with her. Jennifer doesn’t speak English but she understands what “picture” means. She obliges and gives her best smile.
She seems to enjoy herself as she tours the various stands set up in the Pavilion.
For this housewife from Tangulbei, this is beyond her wildest expectations. “I never thought a lowly woman like me who hasn’t gone to school could ever get into a plane with other people and be here at this venue. It is a miracle.” She says with a smile. “I survive on one meal a day, how is it that I am here?”
She was also surprised that planes could be so big. ” I used to see planes from the ground and think they are small, am surprised they are so big and anyone can get into them.”
This is not her first encounter with Egypt as before coming here, she had read of it in the bible and seen pictures.
As she tours the stands she meets up with people of different races. “I never thought I would meet so many people of different races and communities. I have met people from Asia and Congo.” She says. Egyptians have especially made an impression on her. “I used to think that Egyptians are black and huge people but I realize they are people just like us.” She says with laughter.
Jennifer is on an important visit to Sharm el Sheikh as she is here to make her voice heard on the effects of climate change on people in rural areas especially women at the Conference of Parties. The COP as it is better known is an annual meeting where the UN brings together almost every country on earth for a global climate summit.
She is here to speak at an event organized by action aid on the effect of climate change on her community.
She addresses the participants in Kiswahili through an interpreter. She gives a first-hand account of how her life has become harder because of climate change. “The men move with the livestock far from home and the girls have to walk longer to get water.” Some in the audience are moved by her personal story. At this COP, the small town of Tangulbei has been represented and their story told.
Jennifer is also taking a lot with her back home. “I have learnt that we don’t have to depend on livestock to survive. I haven’t seen any animals or shambas since I arrived and yet the people seem to be prospering. It looks like the people of this country took action to end their problems and now they live and eat well.”
She is hopeful that there will be a solution to the droughts that afflict her community back home.
The COP has had about 33,000 delegates attending so far and when it ends, it will just be another climate conference for many. For Jennifer, it will be the place she got to give a first-hand account of the effects of climate change on her people and meet people from all over the world. She came with much and leaves with much more.
Shows
See AllAM Live
AM Live is NTV's morning current affairs show that sets the agenda for the day with insightful panels every weekday.
Business Redefined
Business Redefined is Kenya’s premier thought leadership platform for unpacking matters regarding economic and finance policy as well demystifying complex developments in the region’s capital markets.
Comedies
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Creatives & Coins Podcast
A podcast that dives deep into the vibrant and rapidly evolving digital creative economy in Kenya. This show explores the lives, challenges, and triumphs of individuals who are successfully navigating the gig and creative economies. From digital artists and content creators to freelance writers and tech entrepreneurs, we spotlight the voices that are shaping the future of work in Kenya.
Documentaries
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Entertainment
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Fixing The Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar. Podcast created by: Nation FM
Fixing the Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar
Full Episodes
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Gumzo La Sato
Gumzo La Sato is a live social issues show that aims to create awareness about issues affecting the larger society. The discussions range from Parenting, Marital bliss and struggles, Oppression, violence, and all matters of the Heart.
Health Diary
Health Diary is a weekly show that highlights different types of diseases/conditions and seeks ways to prevent, treat/manage them. The show debunks this through real life stories and also feature specialists in different fields, to offer medical advice on the same.
Letter To My Younger Self
Letter To My Younger Self is a podcast where guests get to write a letter to their younger self, from which Maxine formulates questions to ask them during the hour-long show.
Nation Reports
Nation Reports is a weekly podcast offers an opportunity for listeners to interact with various reporters and journey with them as they unravel the biggest most emotive stories.
Noma
NOMA is a gripping family drama that delves into the complexities of sibling rivalry, parental expectations, and the struggle for identity within a powerful business family In the heart of Nairobi, the Mwamba family stands as a beacon of success, with a thriving business empire built by the patriarch, MZEE AMAON MWAMBA. However, beneath the surface, the family is fractured by jealousy, unspoken desires, and the weight of expectations.
One Health Lens Podcast
Discussing health matters and human stories from Kenya and across Africa. We talk big picture from people to policy, ecosystems, and everything in between. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehealthlens
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost peeks through the story of Louis Otieno, the times, and everything in between.
Primetime
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Speaking of GEN Z
Speaking of Gen Z brings you entertaining but meaningful conversations about a generation that is trying to navigate through adulthood. Join hosts Michelle, Jackie and Esther as they unravel all things Gen Z.
Sport On
Sport-On is a 30-minute sports magazine show on NTV and 3 hours on NATION FM. The show seeks to give the sports “fanatics” and “funatics” comprehensive and in-depth coverage of sports both locally and internationally.
Tech-over
The extent of technological growth is beyond mere acknowledgment; it has seamlessly integrated into our daily existence. A few years ago, the notion of paying electricity bills through mobile money or recharging with 'tokens' in Kenya seemed inconceivable. Online product sales were considered distant, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping various facets of our lives. Amidst these technological leaps, those with a solid understanding of tech can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a sustainable livelihood. Tech over Show aims to be the platform facilitating discussions among thought leaders, innovators, tech companies, and the government, addressing challenges and opportunities in Kenya's thriving tech industry.
Thamani
Thamani is a business show which is dedicated to emerging issues regarding micro, small and medium size businesses.
The Politalk podcast
This is The Politalk podcast. Here we look into the ins and outs of everything Kenyan politics. We pull no punches and have no reason to sugarcoat anything that matters to Kenyans.
The Trend
A two-hour-long live show that airs on Fridays. The show focuses on what is current in the entertainment industry, controversial and popular across all media platforms targeting those aged between 25 and 35 years.
The trend podcast
The trend podcast highlights and captures the best of banter from #TTTT segment that airs every Friday on NTV. It's the TTTT EXTRA
The Wicked Edition
The Wicked Edition with Dr. King’ori seeks to address serious issues through humour and relatable wit. It is a two-part half hour show filmed in front of a live audience
Trending
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Twende
Twende is a travel show that highlights beautiful, unique, diverse locations, people, and cultures. The show offers fresh perspectives on familiar locations and memorable experiences in new ones.
Unscripted
This Saturday evening lifestyle show lets viewers share their stories and life experiences as openly & honestly for the purpose of shifting the culture of silence.
VIP Access
VIP ACCESS is Anyiko Owoko’s YouTube and podcast show on Music and Culture dedicated to promoting Africa’s most promising talent and creatives. This podcast grants you VIP access into timeless interviews while providing a platform for rising as well as established artists across the continent. Since launching in 2018, Anyiko has interviewed over 70 African music stars.
WADR
This weekly news show aims to have all sides of debate but not be constrained by it, listen to main voices in the contest but not allow them to hold the viewers hostage, entertain debate but allow push back with all due respect.
When death do us part
In this podcast, three widowers openly speak about the process of grief, how they found themselves exposed to the emotional turmoil of losing their wives, and how society still does not know how to deal with them.
Your World
Your World is a health, wellness and variety show. It provides a platform for audiences and experts to share their experiences on how to improve or manage health issues, across Kenya and the Africa region.