The Massais hardly ever hunt. Massais warriors hunted lions for initiation (transition from boy to warrior/Morani) to show their own strength. The Massais subsisted mainly on milk, blood and sometimes the meat of sheep and goats. The Morani kill animals by suffocation, especially during festivals. When it is cut up, the blood is collected and drunk, all parts of the animal are grilled and cooked, the rare remains are fed to the dogs and the skins are tanned. Since the Massais have become semi-sedentary by necessity, they also practice agriculture, which is why beans and corn are now on the menu.

There are many Massais ceremonies. Maybe you'll be lucky enough to attend one! - The ceremonial jump of the young men, the Morani (warriors), is well known. The high jump from a standing position proves their strength. The women's dance is more like jumping up and down, swinging their plate-shaped necklaces. There's singing and lots of laughter, especially among the women. At these gatherings, stories and experiences are also told in melodic song.

The Massai language "Maa" is a Nilotic language, and it is assumed that the Massai moved from the Nile region of Sudan to their current range from the 17th century onwards. Our name "Eramatare" comes from Maa and means "to care".

The social structure is based on age groups. Boys are grouped into age brackets every 7 to 15 years, then circumcised together, which is celebrated with a big feast. As a result, age within an age group varies considerably. - This initiation was the reason why I, Kaira, returned to my village after seven years of running away. (see my story). Since (2013), I have been committed to children's education and women's empowerment, since 2021 with the support of our humanitarian organization "Eramatare".

An important part of Massai culture is Osotua (Maa for "umbilical cord"). Osotua means needs-based sharing that goes beyond the family, giving others the resources they need without expecting anything in return.