Chuka Community petitions for official tribal status in Kenya

A call for the official recognition of the Chuka community as a distinct tribe in Kenya was brought before the National Assembly, as lawmakers met to consider a detailed petition rooted in cultural identity and social justice.

The Public Petitions Committee, chaired by Vihiga lawmaker Kavai Kagesi, held a session on Tuesday to hear the petition presented by Chuka/Igambang’ombe MP Patrick Ntwiga.

The petition seeks to have the Chuka people, primarily based in Tharaka Nithi County, recognized as a separate tribe from the larger Meru community.

In presenting the petition, Ntwiga explained that the Chuka community possesses its own historical, cultural, social, and economic identity, which warrants official recognition.

He cited provisions in the Constitution that protect cultural rights and promote the appreciation of Kenya’s diverse heritage.

"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.

The MP underscored the importance of identity, saying, "The biggest inheritance you can leave for your children is an identity."

He told the Committee that the Chuka community is made up of more than 117,000 people who mostly live in Tharaka Nithi.

He pointed out that although the group has maintained its traditional leadership structures and cultural practices, they are often forced to register and identify as Meru to access public services.

According to Ntwiga, this situation has placed the Chuka people at a disadvantage, limiting their access to government opportunities and social services under their rightful identity.

In support of the petition, Chuka elder Osward Mwenda told the Committee that members of the community must adopt other dominant languages to be able to learn, worship, and fully take part in public life.

"The Chuka people are forced to learn other languages such as Kikuyu and Meru to access education, practice religion, and participate fully in society," he said.

The petition also outlined the unique systems of governance that have guided the Chuka people through generations.

These include the councils of elders known as Kiama gia Nkome and Kiama kia Mugongo, which have traditionally played a central role in leadership, community order, and solving disputes.

The petitioners further pointed to the example of neighbouring Tanzania, which officially acknowledges over 180 ethnic groups, as proof that such recognition is not only possible but essential in preserving identity and promoting inclusive development.

Committee members responded positively to the presentation.

Some described the petition as important and relevant, saying it opens the door for other marginalized groups in the country to seek rightful recognition.

Dagoretti North legislator Beatrice Elachi praised the petition, stating, "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."

Other lawmakers urged the petitioners to also include arguments showing how recognition could benefit the Chuka people socially and economically.

The Committee will now engage relevant institutions and interested parties for further input before preparing a final report.

The outcome of this process will then be presented to the House for debate and possible action.