Sekenani
Karibu Nyumbani (Welcome Home)
Sekenani is a village that lies at the gate to the #1 safari destination in the world – the Maasai Mara. Home of the Maasai Tribe, it is a thriving community with schools and businesses. When you arrive, you are greeted with waves and smiles from the Maasai people who live there, as they are used to tourists from all over the world throughout the year. There are businesses and schools clustered near the gate, with villages extending up into the hills. The sounds are a continuous din of cows and goats telling stories.
The Maasai Tribe
Everywhere you turn, you see the bright colors of the Maasai shuka, and the sound in the air is of a slight jangle from the jewelry that they all wear. Reds, blues, greens, yellows, pinks and purples are everywhere against the backdrop of the traditional manyattas. Women are seen carrying water, sticks, and babies, as they go about their daily responsibilities. Hoards of children run barefoot and yell, “Mzungu! Mzungu!” at the tourists as they drive by in safari jeeps. The men herd their cattle and goats in a continuous search for water and green grass.
If you are lucky, you might see a giraffe or two, munching on the tall trees in a slow and leisurely manner. Nature is everywhere. The peace is tangible.
The main economy is tourism, with villages offering mzungus the opportunity to see how they live. You can visit a Maasai village and participate in a jumping contest. The women will greet you with a song as they welcome you into their homes. The Maasai market will be open for business, with jewelry, shukas, and beadwork on display to support the locals.
“Come! I’ll give you a good price!” they will say, and you will leave with your wallet a bit lighter, but your heart will be also.
Welcome to Sekenani, Kenya. Feel at home.