Chuka Community petitions National Assembly for recognition as a tribe

Chuka Community petitions National Assembly for recognition as a tribe 

Tuesday, 29th April, 2025
Parliament Buildings

The Public Petitions Committee led by Vihiga Member of Parliament, Hon. Kavai Kagesi convened this afternoon to receive a petition seeking the official recognition of the Chuka community as a distinct tribe within the Republic of Kenya

The petition was presented by the Chuka/Igambang'ombe MP, Hon. Patrick Ntwiga on behalf of the Chuka community residing in Tharaka Nithi County. It highlights the community's unique historical, cultural, social, and economic characteristics.

In his petition, Hon Ntwiga asserts that the Constitution of Kenya recognizes the importance of Culture and as such emphasizes on the recognition of cultural and linguistic diversity as a source of national pride and unity.

“Article 44 of the Constitution recognizes that every person has the right to choose their language and to participate in cultural life. A person belonging to a cultural or linguistic community also has the right, with other members of their community, to enjoy their culture and use their language,” the petition stated, further emphasizing the importance of identity, noting, “The biggest inheritance you can leave for your children is an identity.”

Hon. Ntwiga informed the Committee that the Chuka community numbers over 117,000 individuals, primarily located in Tharaka Nithi County. He argued that despite maintaining distinct governance structures, economic activities, and cultural practices, the Chuka people are compelled to identify as Meru to access essential services, a situation that disadvantages them.

Mr. Osward Mwenda, a Chuka elder who accompanied the petitioner, highlighted the challenges faced by the community, stating, "The Chuka people are forced to learn other languages such as Kikuyu and Meru to access education, practice religion and participate fully in society."

The petition further details the historical governance and leadership systems within the Chuka community, including the Kiama gia Nkome and Kiama kia Mugongo councils of elders, which have historically played a significant role in community leadership and conflict resolution.

Drawing a comparison with neighbouring Tanzania, which recognizes approximately 180 distinct tribes, the petitioners urged the Committee to investigate the matter with the aim of securing the urgent recognition of the Chuka community as a distinct tribe.

Members of the Committee welcomed the petition, describing it as “timely and of great importance.” However, they also encouraged the petitioners to focus their arguments on potential socio-economic gains alongside tribal recognition.

Hon. Beatrice Elachi, the Member of Parliament for Dagoretti North, remarked, “This petition is commendable as it highlights the challenges faced by many other small communities. It could pave the way for marginalized communities to also receive their deserved recognition.”

The Committee is now scheduled to proceed with its consideration of the petition by inviting relevant stakeholders to provide submissions. Thereafter the Committee will prepare a report to be debated in on the floor of the House.