At the Tanzania Bush Camp, we met a Maasai named Salaton. He was taking care of our tent during our stay. He had the best smile and lots of happy energy. He was excited to hear me speak because English is my native language. He had been trying to learn a little English however he could, and he asked me if he could work on his English with me. Fast forward almost 3 years and many, many video calls and texts, and his English is quite good now. Of course, it is English USA style! I am from Chicago!
During one of our early conversations, I asked Salaton what his dream was, and he said he wanted to be a safari guide. He is from a remote village in the Loliondo region, and he knew a lot about plants, animals, and the Maasai culture that he wanted to share with tourists. I could tell he was a hard worker and determined. Jeff and I sent him to safari school in Arusha where he graduated in the safari school program. He continues to take additional driving lessons, English speaking classes and group conversation opportunities. He has never let us down. He is now working as a safari guide.
Because being a safari guide is seasonal, Salaton has worked hard to learn about farming and has been growing beans and maize on land we have purchased for him. This is the lifeline for his mother and siblings. He is able to sell additional beans and maize at the market. He is also very actively raising cows, sheep and goats which have grown from two goats to large herds. He now wants to share his farming and animal raising skills with other young Maasai men, so they, too, can support their families.
Salaton’s dream is to have a safari car. This would give him the security for his future in the animal safari business. He is always coming up with new ways to raise money, so with some support in the future, it will surely become a reality.
The hard fact is that usable water supplies are hard to find, and the drought experienced in the last two years has made farming difficult. The only water source is a couple miles away, and it is used by humans and animals alike. Finding viable water sources is an ongoing challenge and expense.
2024 November – Salaton Completed Safari School
2024 December – Salaton has his first transportation other than taking buses.
