On Saturday, at the Kimana Sanctuary in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, young men and some women competed for medals and cash prizes.
"During our time, we killed lions and did not benefit with anything. Right now, when the morans throw a javelin and run, they get money. Previously, we got nothing. It was just poverty instead of providing for our family," Samanya told The Associated Press.
Vivian Nganini, who attended the Maasai Olympics while wearing a traditional wedding dress complete with colorful beaded necklaces, said girls of today prefer the modern moran.
"At least when they run, they can win some money and be able to take care of their wives and children," said the 22-year-old mother of two.
During such prolonged dry periods, the risk of human-wildlife conflict increases, but communities living near parks are encouraged to protect and co-exist with wild animals.
"We now understand the benefits of wildlife to the country's economy and direct benefits to us, the Maasai, who live near the parks," said Baba Siton, an elder who lives near the Kimana Sanctuary. "I've often allowed the harmless wild animals to drink in water pans alongside my livestock."