Green livelihoods for Maasai women in Kenya

In the Maasai communities of Narok, Kajiado, Samburu, Baringo and Laikipia counties, nature and people have always depended on one another for survival. However, recurring droughts, deforestation, land degradation, and climate change are threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of vulnerable families. Women and girls are the most affected, as they often walk long distances searching for firewood and water while also facing poverty, school dropout, early marriage, and limited economic opportunities.

Maasai Girl Initiative is working to change this reality by empowering girls and women to become leaders in environmental conservation and community resilience. Our project, is  focused on restoring degraded land through tree planting, environmental awareness, kitchen gardens, Smart farming and sustainable livelihood activities such as beekeeping and clean energy solutions.

The ecosystem we work in is a semi-arid pastoralist region rich in culture and biodiversity but increasingly vulnerable to climate shocks. Unsustainable use of natural resources and prolonged droughts have reduced vegetation cover, affected livestock production, and increased food insecurity. Through community-led restoration and renewable energy initiatives, we aim to protect the environment while improving livelihoods and opportunities for women and girls.

By combining environmental restoration with education, women empowerment, and community participation, the project will create a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for both people and nature.

In the Maasai communities of Narok, Kajiado, Samburu, Baringo and Laikipia counties, nature and people have always depended on one another for survival. However, recurring droughts, deforestation, land degradation, and climate change are threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of vulnerable families. Women and girls are the most affected, as they often walk long distances searching for firewood and water while also facing poverty, school dropout, early marriage, and limited economic opportunities.

Maasai Girl Initiative is working to change this reality by empowering girls and women to become leaders in environmental conservation and community resilience. Our project, is  focused on restoring degraded land through tree planting, environmental awareness, kitchen gardens, Smart farming and sustainable livelihood activities such as beekeeping and clean energy solutions.

The ecosystem we work in is a semi-arid pastoralist region rich in culture and biodiversity but increasingly vulnerable to climate shocks. Unsustainable use of natural resources and prolonged droughts have reduced vegetation cover, affected livestock production, and increased food insecurity. Through community-led restoration and renewable energy initiatives, we aim to protect the environment while improving livelihoods and opportunities for women and girls.

By combining environmental restoration with education, women empowerment, and community participation, the project will create a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for both people and nature.