Maasai huts, known as "manyattas," are traditional dwellings constructed by the Maasai people of Kenya. These huts are typically made of a framework of timber and branches, which is then plastered with a mixture of mud, sticks, grass, and cow dung. The structures are designed to be easily dismantled and moved, reflecting the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the Maasai.
The huts are usually circular or oval in shape, with a conical thatched roof that provides insulation against the harsh African climate. Inside, the space is divided into sections for cooking, sleeping, and storage. Despite their simple appearance, manyattas are remarkably sturdy and can withstand the elements.
In Maasai society, boys are often tasked with tending to the cows, which are a central part of their livelihood and culture. These boys, typically ranging from around 10 to 18 years old, are responsible for herding and grazing the cattle, ensuring they have access to water and pasture. They may spend long hours in the fields, often armed with a wooden stick or staff to guide the animals.
Tending to the cows is not just a chore for Maasai boys; it is also a rite of passage and an essential part of their education. Through this responsibility, they learn valuable skills in animal husbandry, navigation, and resource management, all of which are crucial for survival in the Maasai way of life. Additionally, the bond between the boys and their cattle is deeply ingrained, reflecting the symbiotic relationship between the Maasai people and their livestock.
August 2011
Canon T2i f4.0 1/100 sec. ISO 100 33mm
This round’s discussion is now closed! 6 comments posted
Alan Lichtenstein
Your image demonstrates what life in the traditional Maasi village called a "bomer" is like, with their animals sharing the living space with people. I was particularly impressed because your image captures the texture of the soil of the bomer and the presence of people adds context. Color is good. I am not sure if cropping would have improved the. image, as it seems well-balanced as it is. Posted: 04/01/2024 06:01:31
Dr. Isaac Vaisman
Susan, yes the living conditions and culture of the Masai in Kenya is very interesting to say the least. We did vist one of the villages in Masai Mara, it was surrounded by the sticking up wood trunks, and the animals (caws and sheep) were kept in a separate quarter, more so they can collect and let dry the manure which is used as cement for the roofs and walls. I like the way you composed this image including the boys in very colorful outfits. The image is sharp. Posted: 04/03/2024 16:01:54
Dr Edward Goldenberg
Susan to me there are two highlights, the person in red and the calf nursing. I cropped the image the image using the rile of thirds placing both at the cross marks and eliminating some of the sky Posted: 04/04/2024 11:03:47
Pamela Liu
Susan, I really like your aspect of the composition, which is the juxtaposition of the agricultural landscape with the presence of the Masai tribe, creating a harmonious balance between human activity and the natural environment. This serves to underscore the deep connection that the Masai people have with their land and their livestock, highlighting the integral role that farming and animal husbandry play in their way of life. I cropped a little bit to eliminate the emptiness of the lower left and tone down skies above. Posted: 04/06/2024 02:02:20
Mandy Vien
Hi Susan, Very good composition. This image with the boy tells the storing of Keyna farming showing people, dwelling as well as live stocks . I believe this is a manure field. We walked on one of them to get to a classroom at the back of the village and we were wondering the mass amount of flies in this area.
Posted: 04/07/2024 21:24:28
Tom Tauber
Susan, we will miss your images and your leadership of this group. This is one of your best. I wonder why it is slightly vignetted? Wishing you all the best, Tom Posted: 04/08/2024 15:56:49
