The Cattle Economy of the Maasai

Introduction

The Maasai people are indigenous to East Africa, residing in the Great Rift Valley of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.
Their cultural identity and economy are deeply rooted in cattle herding.
Traditional Maasai beliefs include the creator god Enkai gifting them cattle.

The Maasai have a migratory, pastoral lifestyle focused on cattle herding.
Roles in Society:
- Young warriors (men and older boys) protect cattle from predators and lead them to water and pasture.
- Women are responsible for milking the cattle, maintaining the home, and caring for children.
Land is seen as a communal resource, shared equally and protected.

Cattle provide food, clothing, and shelter:
- Diet includes milk, dairy, lean beef, fat, and blood (for salt intake).
- Utensils and vessels are made from cattle bones and horns.
- Cowhides are used for bedding and building materials.
- Shuka garments traditionally made from cowhide.
Cattle as Currency:
- Essential for wealth and status.
- Used in exchanges for goods and services, marriages, and diplomatic relations.
- Cattle gifted for bravery or as fines for misconduct.

The Maasai have historically resisted external influences to preserve their cultural heritage.
Transition from a barter system to a money-based economy has disrupted traditional Maasai culture.
Introduction of private land ownership impacts communal livestock care, resulting in economic inequality and overgrazing.

Maasai lands have been repurposed for national parks and wildlife reserves.
Tourism has restricted Maasai access to grazing and water sources, disrupting cattle migration.
The Maasai are increasingly finding alternative livelihoods in farming and tourism.

The traditional Maasai way of life is threatened by economic changes and land privatization.
The global economy is shifting Maasai society from a cattle-based economy to one based on money and private ownership.