Cattle at the Core of the Maasai Livelihood
Inside the day-to-day lives of these nomadic pastoralists
By Loomis DeanLIFE Photo Collection
For centuries the people of the Maasai community have been nomadic pastoralists whose lifestyle depended on their cattle. Young warriors (Morans) walked in search of pasture, while protecting their cattle and the community.
Cow BellNational Museums of Kenya
The Ilkunono, a sub-group of the Maasai, were also known for being skilled blacksmiths, making cowbells and weapons.
This iron metal cowbell (Oltuala) has a loud sound, which helped keep track of the grazing calves.
The Maasai by Francis NjoguNational Museums of Kenya
Migration
In the 16th century the Maasai, with their cattle, began migrating southwards from the lower Nile River.
From the 18th century they began settling in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.
Today they reside near East African game parks.
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