Lawmakers from the pastoralists’ region have threatened to move to court over the Cabinet decision to dissolve the National Council for Nomadic Education in Kenya (NACONEK).

The MPs, under the umbrella of the Pastoralists Parliamentary Group (PPG), expressed concern that the Cabinet resolution of January 21, 2025, has been caused by a lack of consultations and a misunderstanding of NACONEK’s crucial role.

Compromised education

Following the move, they are demanding an immediate review of the resolution and the removal of NACONEK from the list of entities slated for dissolution.

“This decision is ill-advised and threatens the future of education for millions of marginalised children,” said Mandera North MP and chairman of the PPG Sheikh Abdullahi Bashir, adding that NACONEK is a lifeline for pastoralist and nomadic communities because it ensures access to equitable education. 

“Its dissolution would be a devastating blow.”

According to available data, of the estimated 2.5 million Out of School Children Initiative (OOSC) in Kenya, 1.5 million are from pastoralist regions.

Classified as a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA) under the Ministry of Education, NACONEK plays a vital role in advancing the interests of marginalised communities, as enshrined in Article 56(b) of the Kenyan Constitution.

The MPs argue that NACONEK was incorrectly classified as a State Corporation, leading to its erroneous inclusion in the list of entities proposed for dissolution.

They pointed out that the agency was not part of the initial proposals targeting commercial entities, regulatory authorities, and State Corporations.

“NACONEK is not a commercial entity. It’s an equity council,” explained Bashir, insisting the decision was a fundamental misunderstanding of NACONEK’s mandate and function. 

He demanded a thorough investigation into how the mistake occurred.

The MPs are particularly incensed by the lack of public participation and stakeholder engagement in the decision-making process.

They argued that NACONEK’s work is deeply intertwined with county governments, local communities, and international partners and that their voices were ignored.

The legislators regretted that the proposed dissolution would undermine constitutional commitments to education for marginalised communities.

“It is baffling that the Cabinet earlier strengthened the role of NACONEK… and later proposed its dissolution,” Bashir added.

Adamant

Daadab MP Farah Maalim defended NACONEK saying its existence should continue as it has made a serious positive impact on education among marginalised constituencies.

Turkana West MP Daniel Nanok and his Eldas counterpart Adan Keynan said they will not allow NACONEK to be dissolved.

 “You cannot remove a programme that benefits children in marginalised areas,” Nanok