Prince visists the Maasai
The English prince Charles and his wife Camilla paid a visit to the Maasai community in Tanzania. The prince of Wales wanted to learn more about how the pastoralists deal with problems caused by climate change.
The visit was organized by the Tanzania Pastoralists, Hunters and Gatherers Organization (TAPHGO) at the request of the British department for International Development. Trias is also a member of the TAPGHO, given Trias’ own pastoralists program. This wide network allows Trias to share knowledge and experience with other relevant institutions who promote the development of nomad cattle farmers.
The arrival of the princely couple brought several pastoralists from Tanzania together. Shomet Naikosa, member of the Board of TAPHGO and Trias employee, was designated to welcome the prince and to speak about the challenges faced by the Maasai. Especially the continuing drought poses a major threat to the community, and forces them to use other sources of income.
The royal couple listened carefully to the ecological and social problems within the Masaai community. The prince was particularly moved by the fate of young girls, who are often forced into arranged marriages, which often means they have to quit school. The drought also means that women must walk several kilometers every day, while dragging heavy loads of water on their back.
In Tanzania, Trias is working on sustainable initiatives in order to reduce the impact of the drought. Trias also pays special attention to the development of women. Pastoral Women Counsil (PWC), partner organization of Trias, is committed to gender equality, the education of young girls and promoting female entrepreneurship. PWC’s activities are of paramount importance to diversify the pastoral livelihood, to reduce the effects of climate change on the food security of the Maasai.
The United Kingdom supports several development projects in the pastoral regions of Tanzania. Prince Charles seemed very pleased with the results and promised to continue tackling any future problems.