Elgeyo-Marakwet County

The brief

About Elgeyo-Marakwet County

Elgeyo Marakwet County is situated in Kenya's North Rift region, bordering West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Baringo and Samburu. Iten is the county headquarters and is globally recognised as a high-altitude training destination. The county features the Kerio Valley, the Elgeyo Escarpment, fertile highlands, rivers and forests. The Keiyo and Marakwet communities form the majority of the population. Agriculture is the leading economic activity through maize, beans, potatoes, dairy farming, horticulture and beekeeping. Tourism is supported by scenic landscapes, caves, waterfalls and sports tourism. Historically, the county has preserved rich indigenous traditions while producing many world-renowned long-distance athletes.

Population

454,480

Male (58%)

264,288

Female (58%)

264,103

Area

3,032 km²

Sub-counties

4

Capital

Iten