The Kalenjin community's political and economic ascendancy under Daniel arap Moi paralleled the Kikuyu dominance under Kenyatta. Moi systematically appointed Kalenjin to key positions in the civil service, military, parastatals, and judiciary. Kalenjin politicians Nicholas Biwott, Joshua Kulei, and Henry Kosgey wielded enormous influence. The Rift Valley received disproportionate development resources, including roads, schools, and agricultural support. Land in the Rift was reallocated to Kalenjin loyalists, displacing Kikuyu and Luhya farmers who had settled during the Kenyatta era. State corporations like Kenya Pipeline and National Cereals and Produce Board became Kalenjin patronage networks. However, most Kalenjin remained poor, with wealth concentrated among Moi's inner circle. The ascendancy fueled resentment from other communities and contributed to ethnic violence in the 1990s. After Moi left power, Kalenjin political influence declined sharply until William Ruto's rise.
See Also
Moi Presidency Asian Community Under Kenyatta Ruto Cabinet
Sources
- Hornsby, Charles. 'Kenya: A History Since Independence.' I.B. Tauris, 2012.
- Wrong, Michela. 'It's Our Turn to Eat.' Fourth Estate, 2009.
- Throup, David and Charles Hornsby. 'Multi Party Politics in Kenya.' James Currey, 1998.