The Maasai Language: An Introduction

The Maasai language (Maa) is an Eastern Nilotic language spoken in Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania by the Maasai people. It is closely related to the other Maa varieties: Samburu (Sampur), the language of the Samburu people and Ilchamus, spoken South and Southeast of Lake Baringo. Correct pronunciation is given a high premium among the Maasai and is taught to young children with great attention to detail. The spoken language is not only the most significant point of contact that the Maasai use but the only way that they can continue to thrive in their traditional tribal way of life.

The loss of the Maasai language is happening fast especially among young “urbanites” as a result of close contact with other tribal groups in East Africa and the rise of Swahili and English as the dominant languages. The Maasai way of life is embedded in their language. The minority status that the language currently faces has already threatened traditional Maasai practices. This book attempts to espouse on and preserve critical aspects of the language of a people who despite education, civilization and western cultural influences, have remained true and loyal to their traditional way of life.

This book is meant for use by any reader with a basic command of the English language interested in the Maasai language as the translations are made from Maasai to English and vice-versa. It is written in an easy-to-read-and-understand manner that captures contemporary every day aspects of Maasai life.