During the colonial period, the British attempted to integrate us into their economy by imposing taxes. However, it was not until the early 1980s with the Group Ranch project that we became much more entrenched in a market economy and, hence, more impoverished generally speaking. As a result, the Maasai society, which once was a proud and self-sufficient society, is now facing many social, political and economic challenges. Perhaps some day we will find an exit from such darkness. The Maasai diet Traditionally, the Maasai rely on meat, milk and blood from cattle for protein and caloric needs.
People drink blood on special occasions.
Also, on a regular basis drunk elders, ilamerak, use the blood to alleviate intoxication and hangovers. Blood is very rich in protein and is good for the immune system. However, its use in the traditional diet is waning due to the reduction of livestock numbers. The Maasai who live near crop farmers have engaged in cultivation as their primary mode of subsistence. Our people traditionally frown upon this.