The Sukuma group of herders live on the edge of Ilakala, where they moved with their herds about 7 years ago from an arid area in northwest Tanzania. This picture was taken in the women's area, with the group leader touching his baby. With their herd so important both culturally and economically, their concerns understandably focus on cattle health.
Flies are a huge problem for herders.
Once a month, the Sukuma leaders spray the herd with a pesticide they buy from town. They carry spears and bows both to protect themselves and the cattle from baboons and hyenas, and to try to shoot small wild pigs for extra protein. Though many Sukuma are interested in the world and enjoy radio news, their literacy is lower than farmer children. Even though they are scrupulous about cleaning their utensils, there are few ways they can sterilize anything. Still, I took a chance and helped myself to their products, which sold for about 8 cents per quart.