ABOUT THE PROJECT...

Over the years I have been selling Maasai music recorded in Kenya. The proceeds from CDs have enabled my Maasai friends to hire two full time teachers to provide free adult literacy classes in the rural Maasai village where most of the music was recorded. At the present time almost 100 students meet in the evenings in various homes and churches to learn how to read and write. (continued below...)

Teacher Simon (left) with one of his students
meeting in a church building for the time being.

There is a high rate of adult illiteracy in many Maasai communities. Before 2003 primary education was not free. Because they simply could not afford it, many adults never had the opportunity to go to school as children.

It is through these recordings of Maasai music that Alan Sparhawk of the band Low became interested not only in the music, but the Maasai people as well. Together we decided to work on a community project that would benefit the Maasai. Elders in the community responded with much excitement!

Alan Sparhawk of Low playing in Duluth, MN.

They asked for a school building, a permanent home for the adult literacy classes. Plans were drawn up and a plot of land has been designated for the structure in the village of Namuncha, Kenya.

Low played a few shows in December 2005 raising $5,000. The next month I returned to Kenya to meet with elders, students and teachers to get the project started. Under the direction of community leader and educator Simon Saitoti, materials are being transported into the valley and construction has begun.

Alan and I flew to Kenya in August to work along side Maasai villagers to help bring this vision to life. Thanks to everyone who gave to the Maasai School Project! We still need funds to purchase glass for windows, a steel door, desks, chairs and school supplies.

By giving to the Maasai School Project, you have helped to ensure that many more adults will be able learn to read and write in the future.

To donate, write out a check made out to the "Maasai School Fund" and send it to:

Maasai Cultural Foundation
1721 University Avenue SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414

Many thanks,

Hans Johnson
Maasai School Project

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