Changing Landscapes of the Maasai Steppe

Abstract

The Maasai landscapes have been changing since colonial times. The drivers of change have been numerous from time to time and in recent years there have been significant changes in the land use and cover. The changes have brought alarming effects to the lives of pastoralists but have also affected crop cultivators and the ecosystem in general. Change is inevitable but what the changes mean for the ecosystems and communities is of great interest. Will the Maasai steppe be able to support animals and human beings in the next fifty years if we continue with the business as usual path and taking into account the impacts of climate change?