In a statement, the Maasai International Solidarity Alliance (MISA) denounced the “loss of control or use” of vital Maasai grazing lands. They accused Volkswagen of making “false and misleading claims” regarding Maasai participation in the project’s decision-making process.
Many Maasai pastoralists have already been evicted from large portions of their grazing lands to make way for national parks and hunting reserves, which facilitate highly profitable tourism activities. Now, a new and extensive carbon credit generation project, promoted by Volkswagen ClimatePartner (VWCP) and Soils for the Future Tanzania (a US carbon offsetting company), is taking control of much of the remaining land.
This initiative threatens Maasai livelihoods and disrupts their established grazing practices.
The Maasai assert they have not given their free, prior, and informed consent to the project. They fear it will restrict their access to crucial refuge areas during drought periods and jeopardize their food security.
