The relocation of Maasai pastoralists from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) in northern Tanzania to Msomera in Handeni District, about 600 kilometres away, has come as a huge relief to many.
In a move that has transformed the community's way of life, the members have ventured into farming alongside livestock keeping. The relocation marks a crucial shift aimed at reducing human pressure on one of the nation's most ecologically sensitive regions.
When they started moving to their new home in 2021, the volunteer families were given Tsh10 million ($3,757) as compensation.
They also received 2.5 acres each to build permanent homes and a five-acre farm for farming and grazing.
Social amenities have been established in Msomera, which is 290 kilometres from Dar es Salaam.
The government has invested heavily in infrastructure to support the relocated families, including the construction of new health centers, schools, and water supply systems.
Many Maasais are optimistic about their future in their new land.
A Maasai tailor in Msomera village, northern Tanzania.
Photo credit: Pool
Merinyo ole Koilla was born and raised at Endulen within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. He moved with his family to Msomera and says the living conditions are far better.
“Some of us were already interested in farming but we had no land. So, we are happy to be here," he told The EastAfrican.
"We could not walk at night in Ngorongoro for fear of attacks from wild animals, but here, everything is fine," offered Elibariki Lengida.
Students who spoke to The EastAfrican said the landing environment was also conducive. Some of them have joined Msomera Secondary School.
Johannes Tiamasi said the weather is good for cultivation of food crops as opposed to Ngorongoro, where farming is restricted.
Elizabeth Makamero, a 43-year-old tailor, is building a modern house, way better than the kraal she was used to. She will soon open a retail shop.
She built the house with the funds she received from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA).
A modern market has also been built in Msomera, where the pastoralists sell their livestock, mostly goats and sheep, to buyers from Dar es Salaam, Tanga and Zanzibar.
