Maasai beads hit the catwalk

“We only know what our mothers and aunts taught us,” she says. “New ideas are coming in, and we may copy them in what we wear.”

Although it is unlikely that trendy designs will seriously dilute the cultural meaning of jewellery, Kenyan fashion designer Anna Trzebinski believes local people will welcome innovation.

“Maasai men are real peacocks and love their bling,” she explains. “Recently they have been putting flashing Chinese lights in their hair. They are constantly looking for individual ways of showing off their physique.”

Ms Trzebinski’s collections include beading, and – although she “tweaks” traditional designs to appeal to European tastes – she usually sticks more closely to the originals than Western designers. Translating rather than altering authentic Maasai motifs increases the value of their work.

Ms Litgens feels the future looks encouraging.

If one or two Maasai women are able to learn how the international garment industry functions, then perhaps a daughter or granddaughter may be able to deal directly with Dior or Chanel.