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Great expectations
As weather patterns become less predictable, Maasai men, herders, and village leaders are rightfully concerned about how to sustain their livestock-based economy.
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The ICSEE Manyara Feedlot
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The Project has responded in three ways:
You may remember that two years ago we took 46 Tanzanians to Kenya to learn how their fellow Maasai flexibly adapt to drought conditions.
Our Manyara feedlot grew out of that initial exploration. A team of Maasai men take care of our cattle at the feedlot. They also look after other herders' cattle, when grass is not available.
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The Maasai love of their cattle is legendary
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Maasai love for their cattle is legendary. So it is no surprise that perhaps most exciting for all of us, The Project started its own breeding herd!
We started with 25 females and three bulls from a breed known for its resilience in hard times. Our cows are a cross between
Sahiwal and
Boran breeds. Very successful breeds in Kenya, they're known for quick growth, disease resistance, and excellent milk and meat production.
We are happy to announce that many of the cows are pregnant, thriving, and expecting calves in February and March.
When they are about a year old, we will sell the calves to the Maasai. This will bring the Tanzanian Maasai opportunities to get to know these interesting, hardy breeds, while circulating the funds needed to continue with cattle innovation.
This year's rains were plentiful. The grass in our favorite grazing and watering area is likely to last until September.
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Staying flexible in the face of a changing environment
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The Project is storing food now, ready to provide for the herd when grass is not available.
By taking this approach with our breeding herd, we demonstrate to our fellow herders some of the flexibility required in the face of changing environmental conditions.
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