The making of female fertility

Abstract

The cultural and social context of sexuality among the Maasai of Tanzania was described based on case studies focus groups interviews and observation. There were about 300000 Maasai concentrated along the border with Kenya who engaged in livestock herding. Distinctive features of this agricultural group were age hierarchies and power relations between men of various ages. The formal system determined gender relations and the passage into womanhood. Boys were circumcised at about 16-18 years of age which marked their entry into the warrior age set system. During the next 7-8 years these young adults lived separate lives in all ways (location dress diet and code of conduct) and were under the authority of the elders. Young men were not allowed to marry or to engage in sexual activity with married women. Through rituals the young men developed strong bonds. The cultural meaning of sexuality emphasized physical strength nutritious food and good health. Premarital sexual activity occurred between warriors and prepubescent girls aged 10 years and older at special homes or in secret places. The aim was not pleasure but experience. The emphasis was on the number of partners and the number of ejaculations. Penetration was achieved gradually and under the direction of mothers; care was taken not to physically harm the girls. Girls selected their sexual partners and publicly announced their selection at a ritual milk drinking occasion. Girls without male partners were subjected to forced penetration amid laughter. There was never any shame or guilt unless brothers were present. There was genital openness but not lewdness or depreciation. Virginity was not important not considered an embarrassment and signified someone without interest in the opposite sex. The early sexual debut was considered necessary for the girls health and breast development. Girls were circumcised at 13-15 years of age. After circumcision the girl was allowed to marry which brought with it restricted sexual behavior. Many married girls have revolted against the patriarchal system and engaged in secret illicit sexual relations. Uncircumcision was construed to mean infertility and the possibility of deformed children. The womb was considered the source of life.