Through the partnership between Chui Mamas, Land & Life Foundation, Elewana and other partners, women are building sustainable livelihoods through beadwork, beekeeping, organic soap making and other eco-enterprises. What began as a small group of eight women has grown into a network of over 1,000 members across more than 30 women’s groups in Laikipia. Founded by Ellie Modester, Chui Mamas is built on a simple but powerful idea: when women are supported with skills and opportunity, both communities and conservation benefit. Ellie comments "Through these projects, the women now have a voice and can shape their own and their family’s futures".
The focus is not on handouts, but on training, leadership, financial literacy and environmental stewardship which creates a long-term income and confidence. There is stronger environmental awareness, growing pride in local culture and a clear sense of shared purpose.
Another of Land & Life's ongoing projects involves training a group of 22 Maasai women in the Amboseli landscape on skills around financial literacy, design, development and storytelling - in an effort to improve their income earning potential. The early results have been deeply encouraging with the women being fully engaged in the process. Many women are seeing the potential of the project in helping them to become more financially independent, support their families and educate their children.
Elewana guests play an important role in these women’s journeys. By purchasing products, visiting projects and learning about the work, they help create a direct connection between conservation and livelihoods. Their support provides reliable markets, and just as importantly, encouragement.
These partnerships reflect what Land & Life strives for across all landscapes: conservation that strengthens communities, and communities that protect the landscapes they depend on.
