Elgeyo-Marakwet's agricultural economy encompasses diverse crops and livestock activities reflecting the county's varied elevation zones and environmental conditions. Maize cultivation remains important for local food security and market supply, though production has faced challenges from rainfall variability and climate change. Beans, lentils, peas, and other legumes provide both subsistence consumption and market income.
Wheat cultivation occurs in higher-altitude areas with suitable conditions, contributing to national wheat supply. Potato farming provides important income and food security in cooler zones. Horticultural crops including vegetables, fruits, and flowers have expanded as farmers seek diversification and respond to urban market demand. Dairy farming represents a significant activity, with both smallholder and commercial operations supplying milk to local markets and regional processors. The highland climate supports permanent pasture suitable for dairy cattle. The distinctive Marakwet cliff irrigation system enables year-round vegetable cultivation in the valley, producing crops for local consumption and market sale. Pyrethrum flowers, used in natural insecticide production, are cultivated in some areas. Small livestock including goats, chickens, and sheep provide income and food. Agricultural diversification initiatives promoted by extension services encourage farmers to develop more resilient systems. The integration of running economy with agriculture creates complex livelihood patterns, with some households combining agricultural production with running-related income sources.
See Also
Luhya, Kalenjin, Kikuyu, Conservation, Conservation Timeline
Sources
- Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization. (2021). "Crop Diversification in Kenya's Rift Valley Counties". https://www.kalro.org/
- Kipchoge, E. & Kipkorir, B. (2018). "Agricultural Systems in Elgeyo-Marakwet County". Journal of East African Agriculture, 13(3), 312-334. https://doi.org/10.1080/jeaa
- FAO Kenya. (2020). "Agricultural Production Systems in Western Kenya". https://www.fao.org/kenya/