African Settlement Collection

Traditional thatched homesteads perched on top of the fertile Tugen Hills, looking across the Kerio Valley to the western scarp of the Gregory Rift (the Keiyo Escarpment)

Laikipiak Msai

Traditional Marakwet houses built on the rocky eastern slopes of the Cherangani Hills have a fine view across the Kerio Valley

The Dorze people living in highlands west of the Abyssinian Rift Valley have a unique style of building their homes. The twenty-foot-high bamboo frame is covered with the sheaths of bamboo stems or

Ethiopia, Southwest Ethiopia, Omo River. Sunset on the banks of the Omo River near a Dassanech village. Two dome-shaped granaries are just visible in the trees

The scene at a Msai manyatta south of Lake Natron
The scene at a Msai manyatta, or homestead, as the first rays of sun herald another scorching day in an arid part of northern Tanzania, south of Lake Natron

A Himba mother and baby son relax outside their dome-shaped home. Their bodies gleam from a mixture of red ochre, butterfat and herbs

An unfinished mobile phone kiosk is carried on a mkokoteni, a hand-drawn wooden cart. Hand-drawn carts are widely used in Kenya for the transportation of goods within small market towns and centres

A group of Msai warriors, resplendent with long Ochred braids, chat outside their traditional houses. These squat houses with rounded corners have roofs plastered with a mixture of soil and cow dung

A young Galla herdsboy with his familys cattle outside their homestead

In the golden light of early morning, the spectacular Gheralta Mountains of Northern Ethiopia dwarf Tigray homesteads built on the Hawzien Plain hundreds of feet below

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In the diverse landscapes of Africa, traditional settlements showcase the rich cultural heritage of its people. A Giriama girl from Kenya's Coast Province carries her dreams and aspirations as she walks through the sandy paths towards a brighter future. Traditional thatched homesteads, perched on top of rolling hills, stand tall against the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets. In Laikipiak Msai, echoes of ancient traditions resonate in every step taken by its inhabitants. The rhythmic dance moves performed by a young girl reflect their vibrant culture and deep-rooted connection to the land. Further east, Marakwet houses built on rocky terrain symbolize resilience and adaptability in challenging environments. Traveling westward brings us to the highlands where Dorze people have carved out their homes amidst towering mountains near Abyssinian peaks. Their unique way of life is an ode to harmonious coexistence with nature. Venturing into Southwest Ethiopia along Omo River reveals Ethiopia's hidden gem - a tapestry woven by various tribes living side by side. Each tribe adds its own vibrant colors and patterns to this cultural mosaic. South of Lake Natron lies a Maasai manyatta bustling with activity; it is here that tradition meets modernity as they navigate between preserving their customs while embracing change. A Himba mother cradles her baby son outside their dome-shaped home, embodying love and warmth within these walls made from natural materials. Witnessing daily life unfold in Africa also means encountering entrepreneurship at its finest – an unfinished mobile phone kiosk being carried on mkokoteni signifies progress and innovation even in remote areas. The Laikipiak Maasai girl dances gracefully under open skies, showcasing not only her skills but also celebrating unity among her community members who gather around for joyous occasions. Meanwhile, a group of Maasai warriors stands strong together – guardians protecting their land and heritage with unwavering determination.