subject: The Kenya Masai History [print this page] The Kenya Masai History The Kenya Masai History
According to their oral tradition, they originated from the north of Lake Turkana. They landed south in the fifteenth century. Today, they live in the southern part of Kenya and some have crossed the border into Tanzania. Traditionally, they are nomadic pastoralists. Today, some have embraced farming and trade as a means to supplement the income from pastorallism. As a result of inadequate grazing land they have been forced to adapt other means of livelihood. Intermarrying with neighboring communities has taught them other skills needed for survival.
The Kenyan Masai is one of the few tribes in Kenya that is fighting to keep its culture from western influence. Though slowly by slowly they are accepting some of the western practises, they do not want to entirely lose touch of who they are. Today, you will find a Masai Moran in the jungle, scantily dressed in a 'shuka' but he has a mobile phone that he uses to communicate with other herders across the plains. The Kenya Masai traditionally believe in god' ENGAI' who, it's supposed lives on top of Ol Donyo Lengai in Serengeti Tanzania. They pray to this god and offer sacrifices to him.
The Laibon who is a prophet and a mediator between the people and god is a very important religious leader to the people. All religious ceremonies are performed by him. He is highly esteemed by the people and some even fear him. Today, most Masai have turned away from traditional worship and have either become Christians or Muslims with the majority being Christians. A few still worship traditionally.
