Women leaders from the greater Maa Community have called on the community to prioritize education for both boys and girls, while abandoning cultural practices that hinder development and human dignity.
The leaders, led by Cabinet Secretary for Defence Soipan Tuya, emphasized that education is the key to unlocking social progress, bridging inequality, and preparing the community to benefit from emerging economic opportunities, especially following the recent transfer of Amboseli National Park to the Kajiado County Government.
“Let us educate our children so they can have a better future and participate in nation-building,” said CS Tuya. She noted that the park’s transfer will open new doors for local enterprise, tourism, and conservation jobs, but only if residents are equipped with the right skills and knowledge.
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Her sentiments were echoed by County First Ladies Association Chairperson Alamitu Guyo Jattani, who described education as the most powerful tool for unlocking human potential. While praising the Maasai community for preserving its cultural heritage, she warned that low education levels remain a major barrier in pastoralist regions.
“I urge all of us to embrace education and shun retrogressive practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and early marriages, which prevent our children from fulfilling their dreams,” she said.
Ednah Lenku, spouse of the Kajiado Governor, reiterated the need to empower women and girls to live in dignity, health, and freedom. She acknowledged progress in the fight against FGM but stressed that more work is needed to eradicate the practice completely.
From Narok County, Agnes Ntutu, wife of Governor Patrick ole Ntutu, expressed concern over rising cases of early marriage. She cited statistics showing that one in every eight children in Maasai land is married off early, a trend she said undermines the future of girls and the broader community.
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“We must allow our daughters to pursue education so they can become influential leaders in the future, just like CS Tuya,” she said.
The leaders’ remarks come amid vibrant cultural celebrations at the festival, which continues to draw thousands from across Kajiado, Narok, Samburu, and neighboring regions. While the event showcases Maasai music, dance, beadwork, and livestock exhibitions, it has also become a platform for dialogue on critical issues affecting the community.
Education, gender equality, and youth empowerment have emerged as central themes, with speakers urging parents, elders, and opinion leaders to support school enrollment and retention, especially for girls.
The festival is being used not only to celebrate heritage but also to challenge harmful norms and promote inclusive development. Women leaders say the time has come for the Maa community to match its cultural pride with bold investments in education and social reform.
By Masaki Enock
