Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Maasai-Rich in Traditions

     The Maasai tribe is primarily found in Kenya and Tanzania. This tribe numbers approximately one million. This count is not accurate however due to some do not want to be counted and some want to be counted numerous times. This group of people is very distinct in their traditional dress. The red and blue wraps can be seen from miles away. This link explains several rituals and traditions followed by the Maasai.
     As I have stated before, I have had the opportunity to visit the homes and people while in Tanzania. The village was set up for different families to stay for several months at a time. This allowed for the families to all take advantage of the tourist traveling through the area.We paid an entry fee and was greeted by a traditional dance. The women's bead work was all on display for purchase. After the required haggling over the prices the money was handed to the man which I can only assume was the husband.
     This website describes the traditional rite of passage the boys must take to become an elder. The groups are according to age sets. If I understand correctly this would mean the children are not ever alone but grow up in a group. The camaraderie of the tribe would have to be strong with that kind of bond developing from an early age on. I would hope these traditions would not be lost as the group struggles to survive as the government enforces new regulations and territory on the tribes. 

No comments:

Post a Comment