- Source: Kilgoris
Kilgoris is a town in Narok County, Kenya. The town has a population of 70,475 (2019 census). Kilgoris is one of two major urban centres in Narok County, the other being Narok Town.
History
The Maasai are an indigenous and prominent tribe in the area. Past ethnic clashes have occurred between the Maasai and the surrounding tribes due to land issues (e.g., cattle raiding). It is the divisional headquarters of the former Kilgoris Division (currently Trans-Mara West sub-County under the devolved administration system).
Location
The town is located about 60 km west of the game reserve Masai Mara National Reserve, known for its spectacular annual migration of wildebeest. There is a murram road from the town through the neighbouring town of Lolgorien to Mara, another to Enoosaen in the West, and another to Kirindoni through the famous Oloololo gate side of the park. It is an alternative to Narok Road, especially for anyone coming from Western Kenya.
Economy
The town's economy relies on agriculture, trade, and some level of tourism due to its proximity to Maasai Mara. Farming, especially maize and bean cultivation, plays a significant role in the livelihood of many residents. Sugarcane farming is increasingly becoming the main economic activity due to the proximity of Trans-Mara Sugar Company and the South Nyanza sugar belt region.
Cultural Significance: Being in the larger Maasai region, Kilgoris is home to the Maasai people's unique culture and traditions. This includes their renowned jumping dance, vibrant clothing, and pastoralist lifestyle.
Infrastructure: Kilgoris has witnessed growth and development over the years. This means improvement in infrastructure like roads and accessibility, which facilitates movement and trade. Like many other towns in Kenya and the larger East African region, Kilgoris faces challenges related to economic development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The region also contends with periodic droughts which can affect the predominantly pastoralist and agricultural activities.
Kilgoris was previously the capital of the former Trans Mara District. The constituency Member of Parliament for Kilgoris Julius Ole Sunkuli, who initially served from 1992 to 2002 and made a comeback in 2022. Sunkuli was preceded by Hon. Gideon Konchella, Ole Sompisha and Hon John Konchella. Kilgoris is the home of the first Narok County governor HE Samuel Kuntai Tunai.
Kilgoris is a build up of many religions all together: Christians, Muslims, Hindus and atheists. Kilgoris and its surrounding regions have several schools, both primary and secondary, serving the educational needs of the local community. One notable initiative is The Kilgoris Project. This non-profit organization partners with local leaders to provide education, meals, and medical care to the Maasai children in Kilgoris. The Kilgoris Project runs several schools in the area.
The things that make Kilgoris a scenery is Proximity to Maasai Mara: While Kilgoris is not in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, it is relatively close. The Maasai Mara is one of the world's most famous game reserves, known for the Great Migration of wildebeest and other wildlife. Being near such a significant tourist attraction can influence the local economy and way of life. Cultural Richness: Kilgoris is situated in the Maasai region, making it a hub for Maasai culture and traditions. This includes their distinct clothing, jewelry, songs, dances, and pastoral lifestyle. Agricultural Significance: The region around Kilgoris is fertile, making agriculture a primary economic activity. This includes the cultivation of crops like maize and beans, and livestock rearing. Growth and Development: Over the years, Kilgoris has seen development in terms of infrastructure and amenities. This growth reflects both the opportunities and challenges of urbanization in the region.Community Projects: Organizations, both local and international, have been attracted to Kilgoris for community development and outreach projects. For example, The Kilgoris Project, a non-profit initiative, has been instrumental in enhancing education and healthcare in the area. Strategic Location: Kilgoris serves as a connecting point for various routes in the region, making it a strategic town for trade and transportation. And also it has very beautiful hills like the infamous Mt Love which is shaped like a love heart.
Notable residents
Billy Konchellah, winner of two consecutive 800m World Championships, Wycliffe Kinyamal, a two-time Commonwealth Games 800m champion and David Rudisha, current world record holder and reigning Olympic champion in 800 metres, are from Kilgoris.
