Our Story
Orkonerei Maasai Social Initiatives (OMASI) began with a visionary leader's unwavering commitment to his community. Founded in 1993 as IOPA, OMASI carries forward a powerful legacy of innovation, self-sufficiency, and deep respect for Maasai traditions. We believe in empowering communities to lead their own development, fostering solutions that are rooted in local needs and designed for long-term sustainability. Our journey is deeply intertwined with the life and work of our founder, Martin Saning'o Kariongi Ole Sanago.
Martin Saning'o Kariongi Ole Sanago
Martin dedicated his life to empowering his community, he founded IOPA in the 1990s and launched Tanzania's first community radio - Orkonerei FM Radio. He passionately championed women's empowerment, establishing safe centers and creating economic opportunities through dairy processing plants. An Ashoka Fellow and internationally recognized for his work, Martin's legacy through OMASI continues to foster a more just and sustainable future for the Maasai.
Our Values & Philosophy
Our work is guided by core principles that reflect our commitment to rural communities:
- Empowerment: We believe in enabling individuals and communities to define and achieve their own success.
- Innovation Driven by Community Needs: Our solutions are born from understanding local challenges and leveraging creative, sustainable approaches.
- Long-term Sustainability: We strive to build initiatives and enterprises that can thrive independently, creating lasting positive impact.
Our Impact & Achievements
- Education: Contributed to the building of classrooms and other buildings for over 50 pre-primary, primary and secondary schools across the region.
- Livestock & Livelihoods: Provided over 500 improved breeds of cows and goats to 100 pastoral families in the Maasai region, bolstering their economic stability.
- Energy Access: Established a mini grid in Terrat and other solar power microgrids in two additional sub-villages, bringing essential power to over 2000 people in remote areas.
- Water Security: Drilled several boreholes in Simanjiro, Longido and Same, providing clean water to over 30,000 people.
- Empowering Youth: Facilitated education at different levels for over 500 children from pastoral communities.