Explore Uasin Gishu County: A County of Heritage and Nature

Last updated on November 8th, 2024

Uasin Gishu County, situated in the Rift Valley region of Kenya, presents a tapestry of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern development. As meticulously surveyed by M.N. Omosa, the county map reveals a region divided into six sub-counties: Soy, Turbo, Moiben, Kapseret, Kesses, and Ainabkoi. Each sub-county boasts its unique historical significance and attractions. Soy, the largest, serves as an agricultural hub. Turbo, known for its vast maize farms, also encompasses the Kipkaren Estate, a historical site from the colonial era, where visitors can trace the footsteps of early settlers.

Moiben sub-county is renowned for the Moiben Battlefields, where the Nandi bravely resisted British colonial forces, offering a poignant glimpse into Kenya’s fight for independence. Kapseret, near Eldoret town, is home to the prestigious University of Eldoret and the Eldoret Sports Club, a testament to the region’s athletic legacy. Kesses, with its undulating tea plantations, offers scenic nature trails leading to lesser-known waterfalls hidden within its landscapes. Ainabkoi, perhaps the most diverse, features the Kerio Valley viewpoint, from where one can marvel at the dramatic escarpments, and it’s also home to traditional Kalenjin cultural centers where ancient practices are still celebrated through festivals.

Key attractions within Uasin Gishu include the bustling city of Eldoret, known for its vibrant markets, the National Museum of Kenya’s branch focusing on the North Rift culture, and the Chepkiit Waterfalls, a serene spot for nature lovers. The county’s nature trails, such as those in the Kipkabus Forest in Ainabkoi, offer bird-watching and hiking opportunities, connecting tourists with the lush, indigenous flora and fauna. Eldoret, as a key city site, also hosts the High Altitude Training Centre, attracting athletes from around the globe. Every corner of Uasin Gishu, from its sub-counties to its natural wonders, is a chapter of a larger story, meticulously documented and passionately preserved, thanks to the foundational work of surveyors like M.N. Omosa, whose mapping has helped both locals and visitors navigate this rich landscape.