Language & Ecology | 2023 http://ecolinguistics-association.org/journal 1 An ecolinguistic reading of Luhya oral narratives in Kenya: The ecofeminism and ecocentrism ecosophies Vicky Khasandi-Telewa Laikipia University, Kenya E-mail: vkhasandi@laikipia.ac.ke Abstract In this paper, I examine the narration of the Earth’s ecosphere in tales from the Luhya community which resides within the vicinity of the rich, natural Kakamega rainforest in Kenya. Ecolinguistics is used to explore the harmonious co-existence of human beings with more-than-humans, such as the forest and its occupants, and how this relationism [connectedness, because existence necessarily means being in a relationship] contributes to environmental conservation. Five selected oral narratives of the Luhya are investigated with a view to exploring the ecosophies of ecofeminism and ecocentrism and how the forest is to be revered and left to exist peacefully. The findings show that positive, negative, and ambivalent stories exist, and ecofeminism and ecocentrism ecosophies are salient. Like ecocriticism, ecolinguistics is also concerned not only with examining texts for environmental themes but also analysing the societal practices relating to nature and conservation. This paper gives a more in-depth analysis of the approach of ecosophies in oral narratives, which has not received adequate scholarly attention. Keywords: ecolinguistics; ecosophies; ecofeminism; convironment; oral narratives; Kenya 1. Background The forest is a very important source of rain which contributes to rivers and other life- sustaining resources. Unfortunately, increased decimation of forests has continued to contribute to climate change which leads to environmental disasters. Extremes of weather such as floods and droughts recur year in, year out, leading to famines and displacement of populations, as well as to conflict among neighbours wrangling for the scarce green International Ecolinguistics Association Article