I'll never forget the first time I saw the countryside of Kenya. Seeing zebras and giraffes grazing with elephants below Mount Kilimanjaro was as magical to see as in my childhood dreams. I stayed in a Maasai village by Amboseli, where I met a friend I've visited several times over the years. His name is James Likampa Leshinka, and his people could really use some help.

The severe drought in East Africa has led to starvation and desperation for countless people and animals. The Maasai people depend mainly on cattle and goats for meat and milk and Ugali (maize) for their primary diet. Sadly, the lack of rain this year has caused major food insecurities in the region. This is seen in the landscape as wild and domesticated animals have been dying in much higher numbers.

Climate change affects everyone, and each place must adapt differently. This corner of the world represents a unique environment and culture maintained through a delicate balance. Around Amboseli, the competition for water and green grass outside of the park can make it challenging for herders to keep their cows fed, which is an ongoing conversation among community members. This has led to an idea and a hope that the people have shared about drilling a well.

After a recent conversation I had with him, James got a bid from a contractor and received approval from members of the tribe to put in a well. To build a farm, there must be a well, a pump, a solar power source, and an electric fence to keep elephants and giraffes out. It requires a great deal of outside help to achieve such a goal, but the benefit to this community would be invaluable.