Maasai society have their own lifestyle which differs from other societies in Tanzania. They have their dressing styles, decorations and way of living. They wear the rectangular fabric popularly known as Shukain Swahili language and which come in different colors. The majority of Maasai women throughout the many Maasai communities live a life of poverty and cultural oppression. Men are the heads of the households and the village. They have control of almost every aspect of life and hold almost all the leadership roles.
Moreover, Maasai women’s main source of income is through selling traditional beaded jewelry. However, due to their vulnerability in lack of education, women do not have a systematic way of financially protecting their own economic interests. In this regard, here is where you can support the Maasai women through a mutually beneficial exchange of information in making informed financial decisions.
In its essence, most of the women from Maasai tribes devote their time to milking, taking care of calves, and domestic work. This kind of labor is currently the priority allowed for women as there is less emphasis on education and community engagement which might allow women to have more options for sustainable development in the future.
The majority of the women in the village do not speak English, as such, you will be supervised on the ground by a locally trained coordinator to ensure there is a smooth communication between the women and yourself. The main goal is to facilitate Maasai women with a view to prepare their future that will guide them to have fruitful life into their old age. Due to the remote location of this program and limited local transportation, you may be required to stay the first night in Monduli. Additionally, placement is in a Maasai village in Arusha, but to increase immersion you may get spread across various villages.
Expect a very “back to nature” approach during your stay here! You will be staying in a very simple traditional family home in a Maasai village in Arusha, several kilometers off the main road, and quite far off the beaten track. During the dry season, the villagers have to walk several kilometers to fetch water for cooking, drinking and sometimes washing.
You will live in a house made of wood, cow dung and clay. The Maasai generally live without electricity, and although some houses have recently acquired solar panels, you should not expect them. There is no running water or western toilets. All participants are expected to be environmentally aware and to use all resources with extreme restraint, especially water, paper and electricity.
Meals are based on local cuisine and consist of corn, rice, potatoes and bananas. Beef, goat meat, beans and some green leafy vegetables add nutrients to the daily meals. There are no stores nearby, so if you feel uncomfortable with local style meals, feel free to bring extra food from Monduli or Arusha, knowing that there is no refrigeration available.
Airport pick-up on Saturday and Sunday (JRO or ZNZ) at 10am or 2pm and first night in Monduli. Volunteers arriving on Saturday will have to pay an additional fee for the first night.
Due to the remoteness of this program and limited local transportation, participants may be required to spend the first night in Monduli and travel to the village the following morning. The program takes place in a Maasai village in Arusha, but to maximize the immersion experience, you can be spread out over several villages.
– 18 years
– Intermediate level in english
– Passport copy
– Clothing that covers knees and shoulders while working.
– Bring a lamp, sleeping bag and batteries as there is very little electricity on the project.
– Closed toe shoes.
