On Treaty 4 Territory in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, buffalo once shaped every part of Indigenous life. Their near-extinction devastated culture, food systems, economies, and spiritual identity.
Today, communities across the Prairies are restoring that sacred relationship, and Tearfund Canada is honoured to support this movement through financial partnership and a shared commitment to reconciliation.
Lima Nanai, serving through Loko Koa, works alongside Peepeekisis Cree Nation and other Plains communities to help restore buffalo to Indigenous lands. Loko Koa provides hands-on training in fencing, herd care, pasture rotation, feed preparation, and land stewardship so that each Nation is equipped to care for buffalo sustainably. Tearfund Canada supports this work by resourcing Loko Koa’s training and covering practical needs such as transportation.
Buffalo gifting remains fully Indigenous-led. Herds are passed from one First Nation to another as an act of cultural renewal and generosity. In December 2024, Brokenhead Ojibway Nation in Manitoba received buffalo gifted from Zagime First Nation in Saskatchewan, and Tearfund Canada helped cover
the transport so the animals could arrive safely.
In June 2025, Peepeekisis Cree Nation welcomed twelve buffalo ten breeding heifers and two bulls purchased by Loko Koa with financial support from Tearfund Canada.
Daily herd care reflects deeper cultural teachings about balance and responsibility. Tasks like checking fences, ensuring water sources, preparing winter feed, and monitoring herd health strengthen both land and community. Youth, including new team members like Smiley, are gaining practical skills while reconnecting with identity and purpose.
The movement continues to grow. School groups visit to learn about buffalo ecology and Indigenous history, while local food banks partner to process buffalo meat for families in need. Cote First Nation plans to pass on twenty cows and two bulls from its expanding herd, continuing a powerful cycle of generosity.
Reflecting on his journey, Lima says, “I never imagined I would one day be working with buffalo in Canada. But God opens paths we do not expect.”
Through Indigenous leadership, Loko Koa’s dedication, and support from Tearfund Canada, reconciliation is taking root one herd at a time.
