Workshops for Chiefs and Elders

Naiboisho o Olpayiani, which in Maa means "Partnership with Men," is the name of the MGEF workshops held for chiefs and elders. In Maasai society, men have all the decision-making power, and are, therefore, essential to achieving the MGEF's goals. The majority of mothers want their daughters to get an education, but they have no authority to change cultural beliefs and practices. They do not have a “right” to stop circumcision of their daughters, or prevent early marriages, or demand that their husbands use condoms or be faithful.

Men will discuss the importance of educating girls as well as boys, especially the economic benefits; adolescent sexuality, with emphasis on understanding today’s youth, especially as it relates to HIV/AIDS; FGM (female circumcision) and its negative consequences; teen pregnancy and steps to prevent it, including discussion about providing a secure place for older children to sleep when their father is present in their mother’s house; early marriage and the benefits of delaying marriage; a father’s relationship and responsibilities to his children; improving communications between men and women; and respect for women with a view toward enlisting men to help move forward the women empowerment agenda.

We shall call these workshops “Naiboisho o Olpayiani” to explicitly suggest that they work with women to reduce teen pregnancy and the spread of HIV, and allow the education of their daughters.