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About Us
In the Maa language, Nanare means “it suits well.” It is a word of beauty, harmony, and perfect fit. We are the Naretoiang Women’s Group—a collective of over 50 women whose name means “Our Help.” To us, beadwork is more than an art form; it is our heartbeat, our unity, and our path to a dignified future.
Our home is the Athi–Kapiti wildlife corridor, a vital migratory path for the great lions, leopards, and hyenas of Kenya. Living alongside these predators brings daily challenges, from the sting of livestock loss to the pressures of a changing climate.
For generations, we have practiced Ushanga (beadwork) to tell our stories. Today, we are transforming this ancient craft into a powerful social enterprise. Every bracelet, necklace, and custom-made accessory we create is a bridge between tradition and the modern market—turning cultural heritage into sustainable livelihoods that protect our families and our lands.
Our Story
Like many communities living in protected area dispersal zones, we,, the Naretoiang women face daily challenges including human-wildlife conflict, climate pressures such as drought and water scarcity, and limited access to diversified income opportunities. These pressures increase our vulnerability, particularly as women who carry the responsibility for household wellbeing.
Yet, we are leading a powerful shift in how coexistence can work.
Beads into Business
From Culture to Sustainable Enterprise For generations, Maasai women have practiced Ushanga (beadwork) as a cultural tradition. Through the Nanare Ushanga Business, the Naretoiang Women’s Group is transforming this skill into a sustainable livelihood by strengthening product quality, design diversification, branding, and market access. The enterprise supports household income, improves wellbeing, and preserves cultural heritage.
Beads into Business
From Culture to Sustainable Enterprise For generations, Maasai women have practiced Ushanga (beadwork) as a cultural tradition. Through the Nanare Ushanga Business, the Naretoiang Women’s Group is transforming this skill into a sustainable livelihood by strengthening product quality, design diversification, branding, and market access. The enterprise supports household income, improves wellbeing, and preserves cultural heritage.
Beads into Business
From Culture to Sustainable Enterprise For generations, Maasai women have practiced Ushanga (beadwork) as a cultural tradition. Through the Nanare Ushanga Business, the Naretoiang Women’s Group is transforming this skill into a sustainable livelihood by strengthening product quality, design diversification, branding, and market access. The enterprise supports household income, improves wellbeing, and preserves cultural heritage.
Beads into Business
From Culture to Sustainable Enterprise For generations, Maasai women have practiced Ushanga (beadwork) as a cultural tradition. Through the Nanare Ushanga Business, the Naretoiang Women’s Group is transforming this skill into a sustainable livelihood by strengthening product quality, design diversification, branding, and market access. The enterprise supports household income, improves wellbeing, and preserves cultural heritage.
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