One thorny issue is the ownership of the Magadi soda lake. The Masai would like to end the government's control of the lake, which is based on a 1923 treaty with the British.
During a drought a few years ago, the Masai moved their cattle into Nairobi in search of greener pastures. Traffic came to a standstill as hundreds of cows were herded down city streets.
"We don't have water sources in our communities," said Nkitoria. "So we are forced to move into urban areas, which is illegal."
The theme of this year's UN Forum on Indigenous Issues—women's rights—was a particularly important topic for the Masai, which is one of the most male-dominated societies in the world.
"Women are generally not involved in any decision-making processes in Kenya," Koileken said. "For the Masai, it's even worse. In my hometown, Narok, there is one elected woman at the city council."
According to Masai customs, women cannot hold property or divorce. In some Masai communities, few girls go to school. The marginalization of women, Koileken said, is cultural.
"Traditionally, women are not allowed to talk," she said. "We're not supposed to make any decisions. This must change. We need something like affirmative action."
Culture Shock
So what are some of the differences the visiting Masai have seen between Kenya and the United States?
"In Kenya, people who pass you say hello. Here, they are running, running, and running," Koileken said. "You can't compare my hometown with New York. Back home, we have small buildings, not complicated buildings like here."
The group visited one school and was stunned to see kids with their own computers. "American children are exposed to more knowledge, and I have seen that they are anxious to learn," said Josephine Sitonik, a group member.
John ole Koitee, a 45-year-old farmer, says that Americans can learn from the Masai when it comes to holding on to their traditions and culture. "This has helped us maintain our identity and stay together as a community," he said.
Nkitoria believes Americans can borrow a leaf from Masai when it comes to family conflict. "Instead of taking people to court, maybe community elders can intervene with conflicting groups," he said. "This has worked in our community. Conflicts are resolved and families are more stable because of the intervention from neighbors and other community members."
They have been impressed with the generosity of Americans.
"When you are a guest here, people give their own beds for you to sleep on," said Ernest ole Matura, one of the elders.
Koileken says Americans' willingness to give to charity should serve as an example for the Masai.
"If somebody who is very far away and doesn't share your culture or language is willing to donate money that could change your life, this should make it easier for us to pull our own resources together and help the people who are close to us," she said.
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