The Cattle Currency of Maasai

Cattle are one of the most integral parts of Maasai society. From their rituals and traditions to their economic and livelihood sustenance, cattle are an important part of their way of living.

Before adopting the pastoralist way of living, the Maasai were a nomadic society. Traditionally, they didn't grow crops or do much hunting. Their entire way of life revolved around their herds of Engishu or cattle in Maa language.

The cattle needed grass from the earth to sustain themselves. It is then that Engai sent the cattle down to earth to the Maasai through the roots of the sacred fig tree and told them to look after the cattle. The Maasai have since then taken care of the cattle for Engai.

As the Engiteng (cows in Maa language) are a gift from God, drinking milk and eating meat symbolize the connection between the Maasai and Engai.

For the Maasai, cattle are seen as a form of wealth. Generally, a Maasai owns around 14 cattle, during favorable conditions like availability of water and grass.  The cattle herd size indicates the status in the community. They are a highly valued source of pride and a symbol  of wealth.

Cows also play a major part in the Maasai afterlife. They believe that when a person dies, their guardian spirit leads them to one of two places: a desert with no cows if they have been a bad person, and pastures with many cattle if they have been good. 

The cattle is also used as a form of transaction in marriage. The groom’s family gives cows to the bride’s family as part of the dowry. They are used to create or strengthen loyalties and ties and as a symbol of their bond.

Half of the cattle herd belonging to a family are dairy cows. The other half feed the calves. So, the calves get a generous amount of milk. Hence, Maasai cattle are larger and in good health. The Maasai family depends on the milk cows for subsistence. Their staple food, like  porridge, is made of cow milk.

The Maasai also extract blood from the cows that is either mixed with the milk, or cooked in animal fat, and given to people with weakened immune systems, particularly those who have just given birth, been circumcised, or fallen ill.

The blood from the cow can only be extracted by Morans. They fire a short, blunt arrow from a loosely-strung bow puncturing the vein of the cow. They then collect the blood in a gourd. The bleeding is stopped with a wad of dung and mud.

The Maasai also use cattle skin for furniture or as mattresses.

Cow dung is used to plaster homes. The bomas are constructed by women.

Maasais are very observant of their cattle and can recognize them by their body shape and colour. They name them and can even recognize each animal’s voice. 

The Maasai individually mark their cattle with long curving lines and intricate patterns designed to enhance the animal’s beauty. It’s also a sign of emotionally bonding with their cattle. Each clan has their own special earmark for identifying their cattle.

Knowledge of cattle is passed down from generation to generation. Children can also read the animal's behaviour. 

Due to the drought conditions, many Maasai have lost their cattle. They have to walk long distances in search of grass and water for the animals. These conditions are worrying for the Maasai. Their prayer to God is abundant water for them and their cattle. Juru Lahita, an elder shared with us, “My happiest moment is when I see my cows during the rainy season. They are healthy. The grass is green.”