The Borders are Closed
In the nineteenth century, African pastoralists had the freedom to traverse vast areas seeking pastures for their herds. However, with the onset of colonial rule in the late nineteenth century, various restrictions were imposed on their movements, drastically altering their way of life.
Colonial governments viewed pastoralists like the Maasai as savage and imposed boundaries that confined them to designated reserves, prohibiting them from moving freely in search of pasture. The imposition of these restrictions not only affected pastoral activities but also their trading endeavors.
Traditionally, nomadism allowed pastoralists to adapt to changing environmental conditions, which was crucial during periods of drought. Yet, once restricted, their ability to move during arid conditions meant that livestock suffered significantly due to insufficient grazing. This led to considerable losses in livestock numbers, exacerbating economic hardships for such communities. Through specific laws, the colonial administration enacted measures that disconnect pastoralists from their lands, clearing the way for settler agriculture, and establishing a system that targeted their traditional mobility.
As a result, the pastoralists faced severe resource restrictions, changing their social structures and traditional ways of organizing. Overall, the colonial imposition of borders and regulations led to a decline in the pastoral lifestyle, highlighting a critical moment in the historical trajectory of pastoral communities in Africa.