Who We Are
Lmartin People Association (LPA) was founded in the year 2004 and officially registered in the year 2010. Since inception the organization has been in the forefront in advocating for opportunities and visibility for the Lmartin people. Lmartin People Association (LPA) is based in Suguta Marmar of Loroki Division in Samburu County.
Our Commitment
To protect
To protect the indigenous traditions, way of life of Lmartin People and advance aspirations of the hunter gatherer community.
To preserve
To preserve indigenous traditions, way of life of Lmartin People and advance aspirations of the hunter gatherer community.
To Revive
To Revive indigenous traditions, way of life of Lmartin People and advance aspirations of the hunter gatherer community.
Lmartin People Basis
The basis for LMA activism is to articulate the issues affecting the LMARTIN people commonly referred to as Ltorobo by the larger dominant community, protect and preserve indigenous way of life and traditions alleviate poverty, human suffering, enhance self- reliance and sustenance, and livelihood support for the Lmartin people. The people of Lmartin Community are found at the border of Samburu, Baringo and Laikipia Counties (Sosian and Suguta Marmar, Amaiya). The name Lmartin is derived from the characteristic of the area they inhabit (Marti eLoongewan), denoting a high altitude area. Over time the community has continuously advocated to be identified as Lmartin and not Iltorobo.
The members of the Lmartin community are by themselves a minority that is facing very real challenges of being completely assimilated and losing their way of life and unique identity. They are neither typical Masaai nor are they Samburu.
For generations, the Lmartin People have proudly preserved a rich cultural heritage, unique traditions, and indigenous knowledge systems that have guided our community's way of life for centuries. Deeply connected to our ancestral lands and the natural environment, we have relied on traditional wisdom to sustainably manage natural resources, maintain social cohesion, and pass on cultural values from one generation to the next. Our identity is rooted in a profound respect for nature, community solidarity, and the preservation of customs that continue to shape who we are today.
In a rapidly changing world, the Lmartin People remain committed to safeguarding this invaluable heritage while embracing opportunities for growth, innovation, and sustainable development. We recognize the importance of ensuring that future generations inherit not only our cultural traditions but also the skills, knowledge, and opportunities necessary to thrive in the modern world. Through education, leadership development, cultural preservation initiatives, and community empowerment programs, we are investing in a brighter future for our people.
Our work focuses on promoting access to quality education, strengthening livelihoods, protecting indigenous rights, advocating for equitable development, and supporting environmental conservation efforts. We believe that sustainable progress can only be achieved when communities are empowered to participate in decisions that affect their lives, resources, and future. By amplifying the voices of the Lmartin People and fostering meaningful engagement with stakeholders, development partners, and government institutions, we strive to ensure that our community's interests, rights, and aspirations are recognized and respected.
Through strategic partnerships, community-led initiatives, and collaborative action, we are creating opportunities that improve the wellbeing of our people while preserving the values, traditions, and cultural identity that define us. Our programs seek to strengthen community resilience, support youth and women empowerment, promote sustainable natural resource management, and celebrate the rich heritage that makes the Lmartin People unique.
As custodians of a proud cultural legacy, we remain dedicated to building a future where tradition and progress coexist harmoniously. We envision a thriving community where cultural heritage is preserved, indigenous knowledge is valued, livelihoods are strengthened, and future generations can proudly carry forward the legacy of the Lmartin People.
Together, we are building a future where culture, development, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment go hand in hand—ensuring that the heritage of the Lmartin People continues to inspire and enrich generations to come.
Partners
