Woodlands and Livelihoods of African Pastoralists: The Massai of Kajiado, Kenya

AbstractA survey study was conducted in Kajiado district, Kenya to document families and species of woody vegetation important in the livelihood systems of the Maasai. Data was collected from a total of 150 pastoralists comprising of the youth (< 30 years), middle-aged (31-50 years), and elderly (> 51 years) age group. The study revealed six key roles of woody vegetation, that is, medicinal, environmental signals, homestead and corral fencing, woodfuel, livestock fodder, and poisons to livestock. For each category, the most common families and species of woody plants were reported.