Nadupoi is a government-recognized Community-Based Organization in the north-central region of Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), that focuses on education, training, and economic development opportunities for women of all ages in Naiyobi Ward. Our mission is to help women develop knowledge, skills, and self-confidence that foster well-being. We envision a community that respects and appreciates women’s capabilities, contributions, and rights.
THE BIG PICTURE
Naiyobi is in the far north-central region of Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), about a three-hour drive from the nearest town via a rugged dirt road. Conservation area regulations protect wildlife and natural resources while also allowing the indigenous Maasai people to reside there. The NCA regulations, however, limit opportunities for economic and infrastructure development, making life difficult for the Maasai, especially the women who do not have the freedom nor means to leave in search of opportunities elsewhere. Jobs are few and far between and financial resources are scarce, making it difficult for individuals or groups to secure loans for small businesses that could otherwise operate within NCA. Furthermore, the Maasai aren’t allowed to cultivate food, due to concerns about potential human-wildlife conflicts, and are only allowed to graze their livestock in specific areas.
REALITIES FOR WOMEN
Most women in Naiyobi struggle due to inadequate access to food, water, medical help, transportation, and means of communication. In addition to restrictions placed on their communities by NCA, Maasai cultural practices marginalize women, limiting their opportunities for education, restricting their ability to influence decisions, and suppressing their rights for gender equality. Maasai girls have traditionally been excluded from public education. Of those women in Naiyobi who did go to primary school, very few went on to secondary school. This pattern is partly due to poverty and largely due to cultural beliefs and marriage practices. Marriages are arranged by fathers such that young teen-aged girls are exchanged for cattle and circumcised before their marriage day. The girls go on to have children of their own and tend the family’s livestock, houses, and other needs. Men make nearly all family and community decisions, and women have little power. Compounding the challenges is the fact that women are commonly subject to domestic violence.