Maasai turning to cultivation should be understood not as distance from pastoralism but as what?

Correct answer: An attempt to diversify livelihood under pressure

Pastoralists may turn partly to cultivation when grazing land is reduced, herds decline, or colonial rules and environmental crises make herding difficult. This change does not necessarily mean that they have rejected pastoralism or stopped valuing cattle. Instead, cultivation can provide food, income, or security while animals remain an important part of family life and identity. Using more than one occupation is a practical response to pressure.

Option A is correct because it describes livelihood diversification. The Maasai could combine pastoral work with cultivation or other activities to reduce risk. The other options wrongly claim that cattle became completely unimportant, colonial control ended, or cultivation stopped wildlife-park expansion. The evidence points to adaptation, not total abandonment of pastoralism.