Why We Should Be Supporting Pastoral Communities?
If you asked people on the street to name a country in Africa, chances are that Tanzania would not be the first country that comes to mind. And yet, Tanzania is a country with a rich culture and a diverse population. It is also a country that is struggling to meet the needs of its people, particularly its pastoral communities.
What are pastoral communities?
Pastoral communities are semi-nomadic groups of people who make their living by herding livestock. In Tanzania, pastoralists make up about 10% of the population and include such ethnic groups as the Maasai. For centuries, these groups have lived in harmony with their environments, moving their herds to new grazing areas as needed.
However, in recent years, this way of life has come under threat due to a number of factors, including climate change, resource scarcity, and increased competition for land. As a result, pastoralists are being forced to settle in permanent villages where they often do not have access to the resources, they need to sustain their herds. This makes them even more vulnerable to drought and food insecurity.
Why should we care?
Pastoralists are some of the most marginalized people in Tanzania. They are often discriminated against by other groups and excluded from decision-making processes at all levels. As a result, they have little voice in shaping the policies and programs that affect their lives.
Additionally, pastoralists play an important role in Tanzania’s economy. Their herds provide milk and meat for consumption and sale, as well as hides and horns for crafting into traditional products. They also provide a source of income for many Tanzanians who work as herders or sell goods and services to pastoralists.
Finally, pastoralists have an intimate knowledge of their local ecosystems and play an important role in conserving biodiversity. However, they are often not given credit for their stewardship efforts or compensated for the environmental services they provide.
Conclusion:
Pastoral communities play an important role in Tanzania’s economy and culture but are facing challenges due to climate change, resource scarcity, and exclusion from decision-making processes. We can support these communities by donating to organizations working on their behalf, supporting responsible tourism initiatives led by or benefiting them, and advocating for policy change at all levels.
