The Masais of Loita, semi-nomadic tribals who are jealously guarding one of the few remaining indigenous forests in East Africa, are in a state of despair. The Kenyan government's recent decision to turn their homeground into a reserve for the development of mass tourism has unnerved the entire community.
In a bid to garner support, the Loita Masais invited a group of NGOs in mid-May to visit Loita hills, a few hundred kilometers south-west of Nairobi. The visitors were enthralled by the work done by the tribals, not only to earn their own living but also to protect and the sustain the forests; in the Loita Masai dominated areas, soil erosion was non-existent, the cattle healthy and wildlife abundant.
Now these NGOs have become ardent advocates of the Masais and are lobbying the government to persuade it to leave the Loita hills alone.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.