Maa Beading

By Bob & Gina Poole

“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.” – From an inspirational sign at Maa Beadwork

One of the key goals of the Mara Naboisho Conservancy is to enhance opportunities for the local communities. Through these efforts, the Conservancy aims to strike a balance between protecting wildlife and improving the lives of people who live near the Conservancy borders. Maa Beadwork is an example of a successful project that is helping women gain financial knowledge and entrepreneurial skills. Over 400 Maasai women are involved in the beading project. Their beautiful beadwork products can be purchased in Asilia’scamps including Naboisho Camp, at their workshop located at the Maa Trust’s main headquarters, and online at http://maabeadwork.org.

Recently we drove over to see the workshop first hand and were impressed with what we found there. There’s a spacious gift shop where the various products are displayed: colourful beaded jewellery, leather handbags, wallets, key rings, and home accessories such as coasters, candle holders, and placemats. The quality is excellent!

As it was market day, most of the women were away, but we had the pleasure of seeing two women beading.

If you want to visit the Workshop on your trip to Naboisho, an excursion can be arranged through your camp manager. It’s a great way to support Maa Beadwork and the vital employment it has created for the local women. Through buying products that help women realise their personal goals, your purchase goes a long way in helping the Conservancy succeed.

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