Students Showcase Traditional Medicine at Maa Cultural Event in Kajiado

Kajiado East, Kajiado County –The Maa Cultural event in Kajiado East came alive as students displayed a variety of traditional herbal medicines, offering visitors a glimpse into Kenya’s rich indigenous healing practices.

Among the exhibitors was Samuel Omwenga, a master’s student from the Ilchamus community at Maasai Mara University, who explained and demonstrated the uses of his herbal products

Omwenga learned the art of traditional medicine from elders in his community and now produces remedies from native plants, which he sells to students and lecturers

Prof. Pennina Aloo, Vice Chancellor of Maasai Mara University, visited Omwenga’s stall and sampled various herbal products including moringa, stinging nettle, dandelion, hibiscus, turmeric, ginger, garlic, chamomile, chia seeds, flaxseeds, cayenne pepper, and baobab

Omwenga shared his preparation process: “We dry the plants carefully and grind them into powders. People can make herbal teas or use them for other health benefits. Maasai land is rich in native plants, and we select them based on their healing properties”

He highlighted the importance of events like the Maa Culture Week, which allows him to showcase his remedies, reach new customers, and educate the public about traditional medicine. Revenue from his sales helps cover school fees, rent, food, and other daily expenses

The World Health Organization notes that traditional medicine is widely used globally, with approximately 40% of modern pharmaceutical products derived from natural ingredients. Local knowledge, Omwenga said, continues to play a vital role in medical discoveries

Jackson Masango, the university’s community outreach coordinator, emphasized collaboration with local communities to preserve indigenous knowledge while applying scientific methods to validate medicinal properties

“Our forests are full of valuable plants. Working with locals allows students to develop projects and document Maasai traditions,” he said

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Prof. Aloo noted that Maasai Mara University is partnering with Oxford University to promote Maa culture and language preservation

“We have established a committee to interview elders and record this rich culture. Cultural Week strengthens students’ identity and celebrates Maasai heritage,” she said

International visitors, including Prof. Laura Van Broekhoven from Oxford, expressed interest in supporting the university’s cultural initiatives through partnerships and conferences

Omwenga, however, highlighted challenges posed by climate change. “Droughts and floods affect plant growth, reducing the availability and quality of medicinal herbs,” he said. Dr. Charity Konana, a conservation expert, echoed these concerns and called for increased research and sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants

The Maa Cultural event continues to provide a platform for students to share knowledge, promote traditional medicine, and connect with local and international communities

Writer : Mweru Mbugua