Empowering Maasai Pastoralists: Practical Skills for a Sustainable Future
In the heart of Lolgorian, Narok County, where vast savannahs stretch as far as the eye can see, the livelihoods of pastoral communities depend on their livestock. Cattle, goats, and bees are not just sources of food; they are a way of life. But in an era where markets are evolving and value addition determines economic success, the National Research Fund (NRF), in collaboration with the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), took a step forward in equipping pastoralists with the skills to thrive in a competitive economy.
Following a recent Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) exercise, a critical need was identified: capacity building in value chain development. To bridge this gap, a three-day intensive training program was organized in Lolgorian, focusing on leather, milk, animal feed, and beekeeping value chains. This training was not just about knowledge transfer—it was about transformation. The capacity building workshop was held from 28th to 30th January 2025.
A Hands-on Approach to Change
Over 50 pastoralists, including youth and women, gathered under a makeshift training hall, eager to learn and elevate their enterprises. The training, facilitated by experts from Kenya Institute of Research and Development, Small Enterprises Authority, Savannah Honey and KALRO, offered practical, hands-on sessions on skin and hide processing, milk value addition, sustainable animal feed production, and beekeeping as a commercial venture.
For some, it was their first time learning about modern techniques that could drastically improve their livelihoods. “I have always sold raw hides at throwaway prices, but now I know how to process leather that can fetch a better income,” shared Susan, a local participant.
Another attendee, Daniel, who has been keeping bees traditionally, discovered innovative ways to improve honey production and market his products. “I never knew that there are partners who can walk with us through contract farming to avoid losses”, he said excitedly. “Now I want to get benefit from bee keeping.”
From Learners to Trainers
The essence of the training was not only to equip the pastoralists with skills but also to empower them to become trainers of trainers (ToTs). This approach ensures that knowledge is continuously shared within the community, leading to long-term sustainability. Each participant left the training with a clear roadmap on how to implement what they had learned and pass it on to others.
One of the major takeaways was the importance of value addition. Rather than selling raw milk, farmers were introduced to yogurt and cheese processing, significantly increasing their income potential. Similarly, by repurposing livestock waste, they could create affordable and nutritious animal feed, reducing dependency on costly commercial options.
A Future of Possibilities
The impact of this initiative is already being felt. Within days of the training, some participants had begun experimenting with hide tanning and milk processing at a small scale. Plans are underway to establish community cooperatives that will oversee production and marketing, ensuring pastoralists receive fair value for their products.
As NRF and its partners continue to champion research-driven solutions, one thing is clear: investing in knowledge is investing in sustainable development. The Elatia pastoral community is now better positioned to not just survive, but thrive.
The story of transformation is just beginning. As we watch these newfound skills take root, we are reminded that with the right tools and knowledge, communities can turn challenges into opportunities, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
