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58-668: Kesses Dam is in Kesses Sub County of Uasin Gishu County , on a plateau in Rift Valley . The climate is cool and temperate. The area has level terrain with medium gradient hills with shallow depressions. There are wetlands and small permanent streams. Kesses Dam is 31 kilometres (19 mi) south of Eldoret town and 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) east of the main campus of Moi University , at an elevation of 2,750 metres (9,020 ft). It receives most of its water from

116-412: A Total of four wards; Moiben - With a Total of Five wards; Kapseret - with a total of five wards; Ainabkoi and Soy - With a Total of Seven wards. The sub-counties boundaries also correspond with the electoral constituencies in the counties. Each Sub County has an administrative office in charge of it from the county Government. Wards administrators are in charge of wards and Sub County administrators admin

174-809: A cereal storage depot located at Moi's Bridge town located in the north of the county, which consists of eight large silos with a capacity of approximately 5 million tonnes of grain. It is one of the largest in the country and plays a significant role in Kenya's food security. The county also produces sizable quantities of milk and horticultural produce, with a wide variety of crops and animals produced in smaller quantities. The county has 1,728 operational fish ponds covering 486,000 m with annual fish production of 593,000 kg worth KShs 285,900,000. The county also has many private and public dams suitable for capture fisheries with an annual production of 33,048 kg worth KShs 9,914,400. The county capital, Eldoret ,

232-441: A conducive environment for quality education and vocational training, aiming to empower individuals with the skills necessary for self-employment and global competitiveness. The county's education sector encompasses early childhood development education (ECDE), vocational training, primary and secondary education, tertiary education, and adult literacy programs. The county has made significant strides in early childhood education over

290-457: A hub for social activities. Religious institutions like St. Luke's Church and a Roman Catholic Church were built, catering to the spiritual needs of the community. Medical facilities were initially scarce, with a private house serving as a hospital run by nursing sisters. Over time, the district saw the establishment of more comprehensive healthcare and educational facilities, reflecting its growing complexity and self-sufficiency. Agriculture played

348-456: A pivotal role in Trans Nzoia’s development. The fertile plains and favorable climate conditions made it ideal for cultivating maize, wheat, pyrethrum, coffee, and tea. The success of these crops attracted more settlers and investment. The extension of the railway to Kitale, a project championed by Governor Sir Edward Grigg , significantly boosted agricultural and economic activities by improving

406-502: A platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and engage with audiences. The festival often includes film screenings, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts. It aims to support the growth of the film industry in the region and foster cultural exchange through the art of cinema. It was founded in 2022 by Peter Pages Bwire and had its maiden edition in 2023. Located between Mt. Elgon and Cherangany Hills, Kitale

464-477: A reliable drug management system. The County also plans to recruit more healthcare workers, create mobile clinics, and provide adequate resources for medical supplies. Moreover, identifying suitable sites for medical-related amenities like public mortuaries, cemeteries, and crematoriums in Saboti and Kwanza sub-counties is part of the strategic plan. The County Government of Trans Nzoia is responsible for fostering

522-626: A sample of fish taken in 2010–2011 from Kesses Dam, with higher levels among males than females. The relatively high levels may be due in part to waste water being released into the reservoir from the nearby urban center and school. The Dam is used as a recreational center by the Moi University students, and by the local people and visitors. Activities include boating, fishing, birdwatching and sitatunga viewing. Uasin Gishu County Uasin Gishu County

580-455: A total bed capacity of 673, distributed across its sub-counties, with Kiminini and Saboti having the highest capacities. However, there is a notable shortage of ICU beds, with only 8 available across the entire county. Despite these facilities, the healthcare system faces challenges, including uneven distribution of health services, understaffing, inadequate medical equipment, and insufficient supporting infrastructure. The doctor-to-patient ratio

638-410: A yacht club. A large water pipe was installed to carry water to the university. In a parliamentary debate in 1991 it was noted that the dam was at present only supplying Moi University. However, the dam had been made higher, expanding the reservoir to hold more water, and could be used to supply homesteads in the area. Work was underway to raise the height of the dam and surveys were in progress to bring

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696-698: Is 1:11,363, while the nurse-to-patient ratio is 1:1,739, indicating a significant shortfall in healthcare personnel. Clinical officers and laboratory technicians are also in short supply, further straining the healthcare system. To address these issues, the County has proposed several strategies and projects. These include completing and operationalizing the Trans Nzoia County Referral Hospital , renovating existing hospitals, expanding and equipping sub-county hospitals and rural health centers, constructing new dispensaries, and establishing

754-600: Is a county in the former Rift Valley Province , Kenya , located between the Nzoia River and Mount Elgon , 380 km northwest of Nairobi . At its centre is the town of Kitale which is the county capital and largest town. It is bordered by the Republic of Uganda to the west, Bungoma and Kakamega Counties to the south, West Pokot County to the east, and Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gishu Counties to

812-524: Is a fast growing town located in the outskirts of Kitale town along Kitale-Suam road. Kiminini is a small yet busy town located some 22 kilometers along Kitale Webuye road. It is a significant agricultural center. St. Brigids National Girls High School is located at this town. Maili Saba means "seven miles" in Swahili. It is located along Kitale-Kapenguria road. Situated at the foot of Mt. Elgon, some 17 kilometers North Western side of Kitale town, Endebess

870-443: Is a strong focus on agricultural training, with colleges disseminating modern farming technologies. The county also invests in irrigation systems in areas like Endebess, Kwanza, Saboti, Cherangani, and Kiminini to ensure a reliable water supply for crops. Mechanization is made more accessible through subsidized agricultural machinery, including tractors, ploughs, and planters, supporting farmers in maximizing their productivity. Tourism

928-549: Is also practiced by Oshwals in Kitale which is a religion that prescribes a path of non-violence towards all living beings while emphasising spiritual independence and equality. The indigenous Sabaot tribe or the 'Elgon Maasai' live near Mount Elgon and are a Kalenjin sub tribe. They value their culture and guard it with pride. They are traditionally pastoralists. They used to believe that their god lived in elevated places where they could not reach such as on top of Mount Elgon or up in

986-490: Is an important agricultural town, which also serves as a local administrative and commercial center for Kwanza sub county. Kachibora is situated at the junction of Kitale-Ziwa-Eldoret road/Kitale-Kapcherop-Kapsowar road, about 30 kilometres from Kitale town. Kachibora is a fast growing agricultural town. It is the administrative headquarters of the Trans Nzoia East sub county. Trans Nzoia County's healthcare system

1044-668: Is another growing sector in Trans Nzoia County, with initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and diversifying the tourism experience. Efforts include the preservation and protection of key sites, the establishment of tourist information centers, and the modernization of traditional bomas at the Kitale Museum. The county is also developing new tourism products such as amusement parks and eco-tourism ventures. To attract more visitors, comprehensive tourism marketing and investment strategies are being implemented, along with

1102-504: Is characterized by the settlers' resilience and the collaborative efforts to transform a challenging environment into a productive agricultural region. The first formal attempts to settle Trans Nzoia began in 1913, when the government auctioned farms. However, the outbreak of World War I slowed this process, leaving many farms vacant. After the war, the Soldier Settlement Scheme in 1920-21 brought new settlers, marking

1160-542: Is higher to the east and declines gently towards the western border". Uasin Gishu is located on a plateau and has a cool and temperate climate. The county borders Trans-Nzoia County to the north, Elgeyo-Marakwet and Baringo counties to the east, Kericho County to the south, Nandi County to the south and south-west and Kakamega County to the west. The county's name comes from the Maasai word Illwuasin-kishu. The land

1218-646: Is home to 15 rivers, including Sabwani, Rongai, Noigamaget, Suam, Kaptega, and Losourwa, which contribute to the Nzoia River system draining into Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana . These rivers are crucial for domestic use, small-scale irrigation, and have potential for hydroelectric power generation. However, they face threats from human activities such as encroachment and agriculture, which impact their catchment areas. Trans Nzoia's forests, primarily located in Mount Elgon and Cherang'any Hills, are essential for

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1276-420: Is home to a textile industry as well as East Africa's only manufacturer of small arms and ammunition. There is also a substantial agribusiness sector that makes use of the produce from the county and surrounding regions. Eldoret is a major commercial centre in western Kenya. Service industries like wholesale & retail trade, auto repair, entertainment centres and various IT services abound within and outside

1334-400: Is now majorly Luhya with inhabitants from other tribes in Kenya occupying almost less than 1% of the population. The county is largely agricultural with both large scale and small scale wheat, maize and dairy farming. The county is referred to as the bread basket of Kenya for its role in food production in the country. The majority of its inhabitants are however generally poor. Trans Nzoia

1392-706: Is one of Kenya's forty-seven counties, established under the 2010 constitution. It is locally governed by the County Government of Trans Nzoia . The County Government Act allows the County Government to further decentralize its functions and services below the village with the approval of the Trans-Nzoia County Assembly . Governors are elected every five years in the Kenya General Elections. George Natembeya

1450-768: Is one of the 47 counties of Kenya located in the former Rift Valley Province . Eldoret city has the county's largest population centre as well as its administrative and commercial centre. .It is bordered by Elgeyo-Marakwet to the East, Trans Nzoia to the North, Kakamega to the west, Nandi and Kericho to the South West and Baringo to the South East. It is a highland plateau with altitudes falling gently from 2,700 metres (8,900 ft) above sea level to about 1,500 metres (4,900 ft) above sea level. The topography

1508-572: Is structured into three main sectors: Medical Services, Corporate Health, and Public Health and Sanitation, each with specific roles. The County's health vision is to create a globally competitive, healthy, and productive region. Its mission focuses on developing a progressive, responsive, sustainable, technology-driven, evidence-based, and client-centered healthcare system, aiming for the highest health standards for all residents. The County's healthcare goals include achieving high-quality, accessible, affordable, and equitable healthcare. To accomplish this,

1566-689: Is the current governor since 2022, succeeding Patrick Khaemba who was the first governor of Trans Nzoia and led the county from 2013 to 2022. Trans Nzoia County features predominantly flat terrain with gentle undulations rising towards the Cherang'any Hills in the east and Mount Elgon in the northwest. Mount Elgon, shared with Bungoma County and Uganda, is Kenya's second-highest peak and a significant environmental and wildlife conservation site. The county's altitude varies from 1,660 meters in Sikhendu Ward to 4,299 meters at Mount Elgon's peak. The county

1624-470: Is the largest town and Trans Nzoia's administrative capital. Mainly an agricultural town, Kitale has recently shown a lot of economic potential, with agribusiness , real estate and commercial businesses booming the most. The town is home to over 220,000 people and as the last stop of the Kenya railway line, it is an important center for movement of goods in the North Rift. Matisi, meaning "swampy area",

1682-740: The Prince of Wales (October 1928) and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother (1959), highlight the district’s growing importance over time. Trans Nzoia County boasts a diverse and vibrant economy, with agriculture playing a central role. The county is known for its significant contributions to Kenya's food security, primarily through large-scale maize production. To enhance this sector, the County Government of Trans Nzoia has established milling plants in Kitale Town, Endebess, and Matisi, promoting value addition to agricultural produce. Furthermore, there

1740-466: The 2019 Census, the population was 990,341, consisting of 489,107 males, 501,206 females, and 28 intersex individuals. The county had 223,808 households with an average size of 4.4 people per household. Kitale serves as the county's administrative center and main commercial hub. Other significant market centers include Kiminini, Kachibora, Saboti, and Endebess. The county is highly diverse, with residents from nearly all of Kenya's 44 ethnic groups, including

1798-416: The County plans to enhance health administration, management, and support services, including increasing medical supplies, bolstering the medical workforce, promoting health research and development, and advancing universal health care coverage. The healthcare infrastructure in Trans Nzoia County includes 15 hospitals, 22 health centers, 124 dispensaries, 51 private clinics, and 2 nursing homes. The County has

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1856-706: The County prioritizes several strategies, such as enhancing promotive and preventive healthcare, improving environmental health and sanitation, and strengthening community health services. Additionally, there is a focus on managing communicable diseases and neglected tropical diseases, increasing immunization coverage, enhancing reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services, improving nutrition services, and expanding mental health care access. The county also aims to increase access to curative and rehabilitative services by providing more specialized health care, strengthening emergency and referral services, and developing health infrastructure. Furthermore,

1914-459: The May 1984 parliamentary debate over establishing Moi University at Eldoret it was pointed out that Lake Lessos was nearby and was one of the largest man-made lakes, so the new university would have a plentiful supply of water, an important consideration due to the dry climate. The lake was not being used at the time. It could also be used for experiments by the students taking fisheries courses, and by

1972-609: The National Trunk Road 1A, linking it to Tanzania, South Sudan, and the Kenyan capital, Nairobi. The county also has a modern airstrip and extensive road networks, enhancing its status as a regional economic hub. Kaplamai Kiminini Kwanza Saboti Trans Nzoia County derives its name from the Nzoia River , a prominent geographical feature in the region. Here's an exploration of the toponymy related to Trans Nzoia: Overall, Trans Nzoia County's toponymy highlights

2030-650: The Seventh Zionist Congress (1905). In 1908, fifty-eight families of Afrikaans -speaking South Africans settled in the Uasin Gishu plateau. They were followed by sixty more families in 1911 and more later. The town of Eldoret was established in the midst of the farms they created. Religion in Uasin Gishu County Uasin Gishu is divided into six sub-counties namely: Turbo - with a Total of six wards; Kesses - With

2088-594: The Tarakwa and Nderugut rivers, which enter the reservoir from the east through a swamp of Typha latifolia and Cyperus species. The catchment area is about 1,720 hectares (4,300 acres). As of 2012 the reservoir had an area of 189 hectares (470 acres). The average depth is 3 metres (9.8 ft). The outlet is the Sambul River to the west. The reservoir is one of the Yala River's main sources. The dam site

2146-485: The classification of tourist establishments to ensure high standards of service. Trade and commerce are vital to the county's economy, with significant investments in market infrastructure. The County Government of Trans Nzoia is renovating existing markets and constructing new business kiosks and sanitation blocks to create a conducive environment for traders. Trade shows and exhibitions are regularly hosted to promote local products and foster business growth. Additionally,

2204-573: The county include Anglican (ACK), Roman Catholic, Friends (Quakers), Seven-Day Adventist (SDA), and Presbyterians. There are numerous evangelical churches among them the Deliverance, African Inland Church (AIC), Africa Gospel Church (AGC),the Redeemed Church, PEFA, Christian Church International (CCI), Full Gospel and Kenya Assemblies of God (KAG). Other faiths such as Islam and Hinduism are also professed especially in major towns. Jainism

2262-455: The county is enhancing cross-border trade by forming and operationalizing cross-border associations, facilitating smoother trade relations with neighboring regions. Through these strategic initiatives, Trans Nzoia County is steadily strengthening its economic foundation, ensuring sustainable growth and development across agriculture, tourism, and trade sectors. Majority of people living in Trans Nzoia County are Christians. Prominent churches in

2320-457: The county's climate and water catchment. Human activities have reduced forest cover from 17% in 2013 to 15.1%, posing challenges for the local environment. The county enjoys a cool, temperate climate with mean maximum daytime temperatures ranging from 23.4°C to 29.2°C and mean minimum nighttime temperatures between 11.0°C and 13.5°C. The highest temperature, about 34.2°C, occurs in February, and

2378-959: The county, all combining to make it the regions service hub. The county has several universities including Moi University and the University of Eldoret , which have their main campuses in the county. Several technical and vocational institutes are also located in the county, including Eldoret National Polytechnic, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, Kipkabus Technical Training Institute, Moiben Technical Training Institute, Kosyin Technical Training Institute, Chebororwa Agricultural Training Centre, Tumaini and Technical Training Institute, amongst others. [REDACTED] Media related to Uasin-Gishu County at Wikimedia Commons 0°31′00″N 35°17′00″E  /  0.516667°N 35.2833°E  / 0.516667; 35.2833 Trans-Nzoia County Trans-Nzoia County

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2436-488: The fusion of geographical, historical, and cultural elements that define its identity within Kenya. Initially, the region was dominated by natural features like Mount Elgon , the Cherangani Hills , and the Nzoia River , which marked its boundaries. Early maps, such as those depicting "Qitale," show its significance as a route for slave traders from Uganda to the coast. Kitale, now the central town of Trans Nzoia,

2494-617: The lowest, around 6.5°C, is recorded in January. Annual rainfall varies from 1,000mm to 1,700mm, distributed across three main seasons: long rains (March-May), intermediate rains (June-August), and short rains (October-December). The long and intermediate rainy seasons are more reliable for agriculture. However, recent climate changes have led to increased occurrences of droughts, dry spells, and floods. Trans Nzoia comprises five sub-counties: Kiminini , Saboti , Endebess , Kwanza , and Cherangany , which are further divided into 25 wards. As of

2552-442: The predominant Luhya and Kalenjin communities, as well as Kikuyu, Kisii, Luo, Teso, and Turkana among others. Historically a white highland , Trans Nzoia's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, benefiting from fertile soils and favorable climatic conditions. It is renowned for large-scale maize production, earning it the nickname "Kenya’s breadbasket." Other significant economic activities include trade and tourism, supported by

2610-476: The presence of Mt. Elgon and Cherangany Hills, which are part of Kenya's five water towers. The county boasts both indigenous and exotic forests, contributing to a tree cover of 17%, surpassing the national target of 10%. Strategically located, Trans Nzoia serves as a gateway to South Sudan via West Pokot and Turkana counties and to Uganda through the Suam Border. It is well-connected by major roads, including

2668-536: The rare Bongo and the Lammergeyer. The district’s altitude ranges from 6,000 to 8,000 feet, with an average annual rainfall of 48 inches, further enhancing its suitability for agriculture. The history of Trans Nzoia is also marked by notable figures and events. Abu Bakr, an early observer, provides a vivid account of the region in the early 20th century, describing its uninhabited state and the challenges faced by early settlers. Significant visits by royalty, such as

2726-557: The sky. However, due to influence of Christianity, education and intermarriage, most of these traditions have been replaced by modern culture, a reason why the one time pastoralists are now big farmers in the region. Religion in Trans-Nzoia County The Kitale Film Week is an annual film festival held in Trans Nzoia. This event celebrates and promotes local and international films, providing

2784-452: The southeast. Trans Nzoia covers an area of 2495.5 square kilometres . The county has a cool and temperate climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 23.4°C to 29.2°C and nighttime temperatures from 11.0°C to 13.5°C. It receives moderate rainfall, making it suitable for agriculture Earliest known written records about the region show that Trans Nzoia was inhabited by the Maasai who, by

2842-468: The start of structured development. Despite initial hardships, including the lack of nearby banks and railheads, settlers persevered. Kitale started to emerge as an administrative and business center, and the appointment of a District Commissioner at Hoey’s Bridge facilitated governance and infrastructure development. The social fabric of Trans Nzoia began to take shape with the establishment of various institutions. The Kitale Club , founded in 1924, became

2900-469: The sub Counties. Uasin Gishu is the 8th Largest Economy in Kenya with a gdp of $ 6.8B at PPP and $ 2.5B at Nominal. Its the 11th richest County in Africa with a gdp per Capita of $ 2,050 Uasin Gishu along with neighbouring Trans-Nzoia , are considered Kenya's breadbasket due to their large-scale maize and wheat farms which produce the bulk of the country's total harvest. The National Cereals Board has

2958-529: The time of the arrival of colonial settlers, had died or left the district, some had died of illness, others had been killed in intertribal wars with the Suk (Pokot) , and the remainder had mostly gone off in the direction of Ravine , though some had gone up the Elgon. After independence, many of the farms vacated by white settlers were bought by individuals from other ethnic groups in Kenya. Kitale, its capital town ,

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3016-600: The town. Almost all Kenyan banks have a presence in the town and these act to service the region. Tourism, sports tourism in particular, is a growing sub-sector in the county - the result of long term performances by athletes from the region. Uasin Gishu has 300 kilometres (190 mi) of tarmac roads, 549 kilometres (341 mi) of murram roads and 377 kilometres (234 mi) of earth roads. It also has 17 kilometres (11 mi) of railway line with 8 railway stations in addition to an inland container depot. The Eldoret International Airport and two airstrips are also located in

3074-472: The transport of goods and people. Trans Nzoia’s landscape is marked by significant geographical features that contribute to its biodiversity and agricultural productivity. Mount Elgon , with its vast base and rich natural resources, and the Cherangani Hills, known for their varied scenery and rare wildlife, form natural boundaries and habitats. These areas support diverse flora and fauna, including

3132-666: The water to areas around the Kesses Centre, Kesses Secondary School, Bombay area and residential areas between Kesses Centre and Moi University. In 1978–1988 the reservoir was used for wintering by several migratory duck species. Mean annual numbers were Wigeon : 8, Northern pintail : 45, Garganey : 105 and Shoveler : 60. The first fish to be introduced were Tilapiine cichlids . In 1990 and 1996 about 5,000 fingerlings of Nile tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) were introduced. Barbus and Gambusia species have also been observed. Clinostomum parasites were found in 75% of

3190-597: The years. There are 434 public ECDE centers with a total enrolment of 44,327 children. These centers are staffed by 761 teachers, resulting in a teacher-to-pupil ratio of 1:58. Additionally, there are 462 private ECDE centers catering to 28,002 children with a more favorable teacher-to-pupil ratio of 1:37. The county is focused on improving ECDE infrastructure, enhancing human resource capacity, increasing learning materials, and implementing school feeding initiatives. Trans Nzoia County has 384 public primary schools with an enrolment of 237,662 pupils and 4,742 teachers, resulting in

3248-619: Was even used as a resting place for these traders. An article titled "At the Sign of the World's Cross Roads: Tsetse Fly and the Trans-Nzoia" from The Field magazine in September 1919 provides a detailed account of the early settlement and the challenges faced by settlers in the Trans-Nzoia region of Kenya. It highlights the following key points: This early period in Trans-Nzoia's history

3306-413: Was originally a depression on the farm of a Danish colonist, Eric Jorgensen, which covered about 500 acres (200 ha) of poor pasture. Jorgensen got the support of six of his neighbors to build a dam, which cost £3,000. Within 50 days two streams had filled the reservoir, which had two arms, 1.5 and 1.25 miles (2.41 and 2.01 km) long respectively. As of 1967 there was a yacht club at the dam. During

3364-542: Was the grazing area of the clan. They surrendered the land to the colonial government in the Anglo-Maasai agreement of 1911 and were subsequently pushed towards Trans Mara District . The plateau that they once occupied was then registered in its Anglicised version, Uasin Gishu. In 1903, the area was proposed as a potential Jewish homeland; British Uganda Programme , which was rejected by the Jewish community leaders in

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