The Maasai people are predominantly nomadic pastoralists who rely exclusively on their livestock products to make a living. Anthropological studies conducted recently show that within the cultural set up of the Maasai community, men are entitled to the soft and nutritious lion-share of the animal parts/organs during animal slaughtering, while women remain with the less nutritious left over meat. This kind of gender inequality renders women, particularly those infected with HIV, more vulnerable in speeding their death, in terms of access to nutrition.

By culture, the Maasai community strongly believes in polygamy and having many offspring, which is considered traditionally as a symbol of wealth. No matter how many herds of cattle one possesses, without being married to many women, and having children, you are considered poor.

Their cultural dances and free-will peer-sharing of wives predispose the Maasai to the risk of HIV. Also, the great influx of youth migrating to town and city centers, in search of job employment as night guards and other jobs, expose these young people to the big HIV risks in the city; and as a result, return home infected, bringing the virus to others in their home villages where the majority of villagers still believe that HIV/AIDS is a disease of the educated and rich people overseas.

It is likely that without proper education on HIV/AIDS prevention and care, the spread of the infection will be out of proportion among the target group leading to adverse effects for the entire Maasai populations in Arusha and Manyara regions. It is upon this serious concern that CHATA seeks to light a candle to address the situation and arrest it.

Efforts have been made by the government and NGO's (Non-Government Organization) together with CBO's (Community Based Organization) to combat the epidemic, but HIV prevalence among the target community continues to increase.

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