The Battle for Laikipia

In the Laikipia region of Kenya, tourists can watch wildlife like giraffes and zebras from close by. But beyond their view, a herder and his herd are intimidated into leaving the reserve. And so begins a nuanced story about climate change and colonial legacy. Simmering conflicts between herders and large landowners are spiraling out of control due to persistent drought. And elections add fuel to the fire.

By zooming in on two families, filmmakers Daphne Matziaraki and Peter Murimi paint a picture of the different ways of life and thinking. Herder Simeon explains how electric fences around ranches and nature reserves are putting pressure on the nomadic lifestyle of his people, the Samburu. Everything in his culture revolves around cattle. For Maria, a descendant of British colonists, the land she owns is the focus of her existence.

Both love their native soil, but they live in two separate worlds. While Maria worries about being able to pay for permits, Simeon fears for the survival of his herd.