The Kipsigis are one of Kenya’s largest and most influential ethnic groups, known for their rich cultural heritage, distinct social structures, and deep-rooted traditions. As part of the larger Kalenjin community, they have a long history that traces back to the Upper Nile region before eventually settling in the highlands of western Kenya. Over the … Read more
Introduction The Meru people of Kenya, who currently inhabit the northeastern slopes of Mount Kenya, have a rich and complex history shaped by migration, oral traditions, and interactions with various groups over centuries. Their origins, debated among scholars, are often traced to multiple ancestral roots, including coastal settlements, Cushitic influences, and connections to ancient African … Read more
The history of the labour movement in Kenya is deeply connected with the country’s colonial past, economic transformations, and political struggles. As in many African nations under British rule, the emergence of trade unions in Kenya was initially constrained by colonial policies that sought to suppress collective African labour organizing (Mulugeta, 2021). However, through resistance, … Read more
The region historically known as Kavirondo—encompassing what is today Nyanza and Western Kenya—has long been a land of migration, trade, and cultural fusion. Situated along the eastern shores of Lake Victoria, Kavirondo was home to a diverse mix of Nilotic and Bantu communities, primarily the Luo and Abaluhya (Luhya), who shaped the region’s history through … Read more
The 1950s saw the outbreak of war between the Mau Mau and the British-backed settlers and colonial government. While the rebellion was mainly fought in the forests of Mount Kenya and Aberdares, Nairobi became both a battleground and a stronghold for colonial control. The city was torn between two realities—on one side, barbed-wire barricades, military … Read more
Christianity has played a pivotal role in shaping Kenyan culture since its introduction by European missionaries in the 19th century. While it contributed to advancements in education, health, and governance, it also disrupted indigenous belief systems, cultural practices, and traditional leadership structures. This article explores the historical spread of Christianity in Kenya, its influence on … Read more
Kenya’s colonial history was shaped by British imperial ambitions, economic exploitation, and African resistance. The British declared Kenya a protectorate in 1895 and later a colony in 1920. Over the next six decades, colonial policies deeply altered the country’s political, social, and economic structures. Land alienation, forced labor, and racial segregation became defining features of … Read more
The Maasai are one of East Africa’s most well-known indigenous communities, primarily residing in Kenya and Tanzania. Historically, they have been celebrated for their warrior culture, pastoralist economy, and deep connection to cattle, which have long defined their way of life. However, over the past two centuries, the Maasai have experienced profound transformations due to … Read more
Nestled in the heart of Kenya’s central highlands, Nyeri has long been a town of historical significance. Over a century ago, it stood as a crucial colonial administrative center, a hub of commerce, and a gateway to the lush tea and coffee farms that defined the region. Set against the backdrop of Mount Kenya’s imposing … Read more
At the dawn of the 20th century, Nakuru was little more than a resting point for weary travelers and railway workers navigating the challenging descent into the Rift Valley. But from these humble beginnings, a bustling township began to take shape. By the late 1920s, Nakuru had evolved into a lively settlement, defined by its … Read more