Benson Nalakai has launched a digital app dedicated to documenting and promoting the rich traditions of the Maa community. The app, unveiled at a Narok hotel, marks a significant milestone in the fight against cultural erosion in the face of globalization.
Driven by the digital habits of younger generations, Nalakai said the app was born out of a desire to make Maa heritage accessible in the modern era.
“I felt there was a need to digitize our culture. We can use the digital era to preserve and promote our culture for posterity,” he said.
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The app features a wide array of content, including Maa beliefs, cuisine, dressing styles, and other cultural practices, they are all accessible at the click of a button.
The launch event drew senior officials from the Narok County Government, traditional chiefs, and representatives from the Maa Council of Elders, signaling broad support for the initiative.
Narok County Director of Culture Violet Sikawa lauded Nalakai’s efforts, calling the app a “big win” for the community.
“Nalakai has been leading the digitalization and documentation of culture. He took the step ahead to come up with an app that gives the entire history of the Maa culture, cuisine, and way of dressing. This is a great milestone for our county,” she said.
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Senior Maa Cultural Chief Daniel Ole Kiplosh echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the app’s role in safeguarding traditions for future generations.
“We embrace this and we will support and adapt it. We want the world to know of our rich culture at a click of a button,” he said.
Mzee Joseph Ole Kaaria, representing the Maasai Council of Elders, warned that modernity poses a serious threat to indigenous cultures, and praised the app as a timely intervention.
“With so much globalization going on, our culture is at risk of extinction. This is a noble idea to preserve our culture for future generations,” he added.
The app is expected to evolve with more content and features.
By Masaki Enock
