A recent initiative by Orkonerei FM Radio has empowered Maasai women in Tanzania to fight for their rights, challenge gender inequality, and take control of their economic futures. The project, supported by the Indigenous Community Media Fund, focused on training women in leadership, human rights, and legal procedures while using radio programs to spread awareness.
For years, Maasai women have faced exclusion from decision-making, limited access to land, and high rates of gender-based violence, including forced early marriages and female genital mutilation. The project aimed to change this by creating safe spaces for women to speak up and learn about their rights.
Through Women’s Rights Leadership Forums held in three villages—Terrati, Kiruru, and Loswaki—women gathered to discuss their challenges and plan ways to demand equality. Over 100 women participated directly, with hundreds more benefiting indirectly. Men and traditional leaders were also included to help shift long-held cultural norms.
One participant, Naserian, shared her transformation: "Before this project, I never imagined I could speak up for my rights. I always thought that as a woman, I had no voice. But after joining the Women’s Rights Leadership Forum and attending the training, I’ve gained the confidence to advocate for myself and other women in my community."
Training sessions covered human rights, gender equality, and how to report cases of violence. Radio documentaries were produced to further amplify these messages, reaching even more people. Orkonerei FM staff also received training to support women’s rights discussions on air more effectively.
A highlight was the Olturur Loo Ndomonok gathering, where Maasai women from across Simanjiro district came together to share experiences and strategies. The event strengthened solidarity and encouraged collaboration between women and traditional leaders.
While some resistance was faced initially, especially around discussions on land ownership and gender roles, the project team worked closely with elders to ease tensions. Over time, many leaders became supporters of the movement.
The project’s success has paved the way for future efforts, including sustaining the women’s forums and continuing radio programs on gender equality. Organizers hope the changes will inspire lasting progress for Maasai women and girls.
As one participant said, "I now understand my rights to own land and make decisions for my family. It’s empowering to know that I can make a change not only for myself, but for the generations of women to come."
With stronger voices and growing support, Maasai women are stepping into leadership roles, proving that change is possible even in deeply traditional communities.
In 2024, Orkonerei Voices Ltd received a grant from Cultural Survival’s Indigenous Community Fund, which provides opportunities for journalism, broadcasting, audio editing, technical skills, and more for community media from Indigenous communities around the world. In 2024, the Fund provided $480,000 in grants to 57 Indigenous communication projects, benefiting Indigenous communities in 25 countries across the Americas, Africa, and Asia, including Argentina, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, El Salvador, Guatemala, India, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, the United States, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.
