Elgeyo Marakwet County is a scenic region located in the Rift Valley of Kenya, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This article aims to provide a detailed exploration of the county, covering its history, geography, and economy.
Location of Elgeyo Marakwet County in Kenya
Overview
Elgeyo-Marakwet County is one of Kenya's 47 counties, located in the former Rift Valley Province. Its capital and largest town is Iten. The county is mainly occupied by Keiyo, Sengwer (also called Cherangany) and Marakwet, part of the larger ethnic grouping of eight culturally and linguistically related ethnic groups known as the Kalenjin.
The total population of Elgeyo-Marakwet County is 454,480 persons, of this 227,317 are females, 227,151 males, and 12 intersex persons. No. Wisley Rotich is currently serving his first term as the county's Governor. William Kisang is the current senator replacing Kipchumba Murkomen who was appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Roads. The County Women Representative is Caroline Jeptoo Ng'elechei, all of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party, an affiliate of the Kenya Kwanza Alliance. The county has four constituencies in the National Assembly, and twenty ward seats in its County Assembly.
Geography and Topography
The Kerio River binds the county on the eastern side. From its alluvial plain, the topography gradually rises towards the west. The Elgeyo Escarpment stands out distinctly and causes elevation differences of up to 1,500 m. In the northern and southern parts of the county the topography is rugged, giving way to more subdued relief differences going westwards. The underlying geology mainly consists of gneisses from the Basement System.
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The Cherangany Hills rise gently to form the western half of the Great Rift Valley and extend northwest in a broken chain to Mount Moroto in Uganda. Non-volcanic in origin, the Cherangany Hills resulted from subsequent erosion of the raised western ridge of the Eastern Rift Valley. The range is approximately 30 miles (48 km) long and 25 miles (40 km) wide and averages 9,000 feet (2,700 metres) in height; its highest point reaches more than 11,000 feet (3,400 metres). Many of the summits are covered with huge groundsels and lobelias.
Temperatures range from a minimum of 12 °C-relatively cool, with mists and occasionally even frost-to a maximum of 22 °C.
History and Culture
Historically, Elgeyo Marakwet County has been influenced by various cultures, most notably the Kalenjin community, who are known for their athletic prowess and vibrant traditions. The region’s culture is deeply tied to its landscapes, with various rituals and practices centered around agricultural cycles, traditional crafts, and communal gatherings.
Marakwet is a sub-tribe of the Kalenjin. It is made up of the sub-dialects Almoo, Endoow, Markweta (the sub-dialect giving rise to the common name), and Sombirir (Borokot) who presently predominantly live in Marakwet District in the North Rift Valley Province. Some now live in Trans Nzoia East and Uasin Gishu North districts and in other towns. The name Keiyo or Elgeyo has been used interchangeably to describe the Keiyo people.
One of the most engaging ways to experience the Marakwet culture is through local gatherings and festivals. The Marakwet people celebrate various cultural festivals throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to witness traditional music, dance performances, and storytelling sessions. Music and dance play a significant role in Marakwet culture, with performances often featuring traditional instruments such as drums, flutes, and stringed instruments. Visitors are encouraged to join in these festivities, participating in traditional dances that emphasize communal unity.
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Cultural Resilience in Marakwet
Complex patterns of fallowing, soil maintenance, tenure, labor allocation, crop diversity, regional exchanges and community decision making are also employed. While these practices are continually shifting, at their core is an enduring continuity that we have elsewhere described as ‘cultural resilience’ and a form of ‘emergent prosperity’ Despite this endurance, external engagement with Marakwet farmers is characterized by nearly a century of proclamations of agricultural inefficiency and impending collapse.
Engagement with new ideas, technologies and materials is nothing new in Marakwet, and the selective incorporation, exploitation, adoption and rejection of different aspects of the Tot-Kolowa project exemplify how Marakwet farmers have previously engaged with agricultural interventions. This selectivity represents a key aspect of cultural resilience, whereby effective practices are augmented by new ideas, technologies and materials without embracing the wholesale adoption of practices that remain uncertain or locally unproven.
Economy and Main Activities
The main economic activity carried out in the county is mixed farming, which consists mainly of livestock and subsistence farming. Other activities include small business, tourism and fluorspar mining in Kerio Valley.
The county is among the country’s most “land-rich” area and agriculture or mixed farming (crop, fish farming, and livestock rearing, mainly in the form of dairy farming) is the mainstay of the economy. Farming is predominantly carried out on large-scale holdings, although there are areas under small farm settlement schemes. The main economic activities within the county are large and small-scale maize and wheat farming, and dairy farming. Other crops grown include sunflower, pyrethrum, potatoes, barley farming, and forestry. The manufacturing industries located in the county are mainly agro-based or agro-processing. They include textiles, wheat, pyrethrum, milk, and corn.
There are a total of 554 ECD centres, 418 primary schools and 112 secondary schools, 4 public technical and vocational colleges and 1 teacher training college in the county.
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The county has a high dependency ratio and a high potential for a labour force. There is limited access to formal employment in the county and this has resulted in the rapid increase of unemployment and underemployment. The majority of the youth in the County are dependent due to limited employment and income generating opportunities.
The county has a poverty gap of 6.0 percent, which is 33.5 percent of the total population of 867,712.
Tourism and Attractions
Elgeyo Marakwet County is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and splendid landscapes, making it a prime destination for various activities.
Kerio Valley
Kerio Valley is an enchanting destination located in Elgeyo Marakwet County, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and panoramic views. Characterized by its stunning escarpments, the valley offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Hiking is one of the most popular activities, with well-marked trails that cater to varying skill levels. Among the notable hiking routes is the popular route leading to the cliff-top viewpoints, where visitors can take in the sweeping vistas of the valley below. These viewpoints are perfect for photography enthusiasts, providing fantastic backdrops for capturing the breathtaking scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape comes alive with vibrant hues.
Kerio Valley
In addition to its stunning geography, Kerio Valley is rich in biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers. Those exploring the area may encounter various flora that flourishes in the temperate climate, including uniquely adapted plant species that thrive in the rocky terrain. The harmony of nature, with the valley’s dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, makes Kerio Valley a captivating destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of Elgeyo Marakwet County.
Paragliding in the Kerio Valley is an exhilarating activity that attracts adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. Nestled within the breathtaking scenery of Elgeyo Marakwet County, this sport allows individuals to soar above dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, offering a unique vantage point over the landscape. As one glides through the air, the serene ambiance blended with the breathtaking landscapes provides an experience that is both exhilarating and peaceful.
Iten: Home of Champions
Training With Kenyan ELITES For 48 Hours
Situated in the heart of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Iten is renowned globally for its high altitude training camps that have been pivotal in the development of numerous world-class athletes, particularly in long-distance running.
The unique geographical features of Iten, combined with its high altitude, create an ideal environment for athletes seeking to enhance their performance. The facilities available in Iten are impressive, featuring well-maintained running tracks, gymnasiums, and wellness centers that cater specifically to the needs of both amateur and professional athletes. Many of these camps offer structured training programs designed by experienced coaches who have worked with elite runners.
The county is notable for its long-standing tradition of producing top athletes who have represented Kenya in many international athletics events.
Bird Watching
Elgeyo Marakwet County is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and splendid landscapes, making it a bird-watching paradise. Nestled within the Great Rift Valley, this region boasts an impressive array of bird species that attract avian enthusiasts from around the globe. Among the notable birds that inhabit Elgeyo Marakwet are the endemic Ethiopian Highland birds, including vibrant species such as the Mottled Swift and the African Green Pigeon.
The Kerio Valley National Reserve is particularly famous for its panoramic views and rich birdlife. Early morning and late afternoon are optimal times for bird watching, as many birds are most active during these hours.
Rock Climbing and Abseiling
Elgeyo Marakwet County is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, offers an array of thrilling outdoor activities, with rock climbing and abseiling standing out as exceptional adventures. The rugged terrain, characterized by steep cliffs and rocky outcrops, presents a perfect backdrop for climbers of varying skill levels. The level of difficulty in rock climbing varies throughout the region, catering to both experienced climbers and newcomers. Routes range from easy climbs, perfect for beginners looking to gain confidence, to more challenging paths meant for seasoned adventurers seeking a test of their skills.
Nature Trails and Picnic Spots
Elgeyo Marakwet County is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and offers a variety of nature trails and scenic spots perfect for hiking and picnicking. Among the most popular trails is the Chebloch Gorge, which caters to various hiking abilities. Another well-recommended trail is the Kerio Valley, which not only boasts dramatic escarpments but also rich cultural experiences. The picnic site at the Marakwet Lookout point is ideal, featuring natural benches and a shady canopy provided by indigenous trees.
Challenges and Development
Programmes of rural development and natural resource management in Kenya and elsewhere in Africa have been littered with concerns over the effectiveness of smallholder agricultural production since the early colonial period, but this is balanced by a history of questionable agricultural interventions that often failed to fulfil their expected potential.
The county had been peaceful for a period of time but factors such as political competition, resource ownership and management have triggered a series of conflicts within the area. Tribal conflicts have rocked the county in different periods the most recent being the Post-Election Violence (PEV) in the year 2008, which had a severe negative impact on UG.
Conclusion
As we have explored throughout this post, Elgeyo Marakwet County boasts a myriad of attractions that cater to diverse interests. From the breathtaking landscapes of Kerio Valley and the thrilling adventure activities available at Iten to the rich cultural heritage found in the local communities, this region is indeed a hidden gem in Kenya.
When planning a visit, it is advisable to consider the best times to experience the beauty of Elgeyo Marakwet. Generally, the dry seasons from June to October and January to March are most favorable for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to explore hiking trails or enjoy bird watching. For accommodation, travelers can choose from a variety of options ranging from budget guesthouses to more upscale lodges. Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is highly recommended to secure the best rates and availability. Renting a vehicle provides the flexibility to navigate between the various attractions at your own pace. Alternatively, local transport options such as taxis or boda-bodas are readily available for short distances.
References
A developing bibliography of sources concerning the Marakwet and related neighboring communities is available for further reading and research.
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