Kenya2

The Maasai Tribe

The Masai - also spelled Maasai - are Africa's most famous tribe. Unlike most other Kenyan tribes they have remained their traditional lifestyles - living like their ancestors have been doing for thousands of years.These tribal people who live in the grasslands between Kenya and Tanzania are a popular topic and a favourite among travellers. They are recognized by their bright red clothing and beaded jewelry. Their jumping dances are famous. Through their dances and songs, the warriors show off their strength. The Maasai people are very independent and their society revolves around each generation of men becoming warriors. Their customs are very specific, and involve many "coming of age" rituals, that include both the men and the women. The men protect the villages and the cattle, whereas the women build the houses, cook and maintain the households. The history of the Maasai stretches back hundreds of years, and today they are living much the same way as they always have. Their herds of cattle are the most important thing they own, which is why they need so much land. They are nomadic people, who travel with their herds to find pasture. The Masai live almost exclusively off their cattle, eating meat, milk and even the blood of their cows. Warriors are of crucial importance. Each Maasai man goes through the warrior stage: a period in their life between boyhood and becoming tribe elders. They can only become a warrior through several rituals. The Masai call their god Enkai, who is believed to appear in many forms and objects, among which are the moon, mountains and colors. An interesting point is that Enkai is believed to be male and female – uncommon to many other religions.