<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation:  Finance and Economic Planning > CIDP II > County Overview

Elgeyo Marakwet County, whose Headquarters is Iten, is inhabited by two major communities, Keiyo and Marakwet, minority community of Sengwer and other small communities. All the communities occupy unique locations defined by the distinct ecological zones in the county, i.e. the Highland, the Escarpment and the Valley. The county is home to world’s greatest athletes, which has led to the county being branded ‘Home of Champions’.  The high-altitude topography and sports training grounds, compounded with ideal climatic conditions, favor training of athletes eventually contributing to excellence in athletics, both locally and internationally.

Agriculture is the backbone of the county’s economy with more than 80% of the population engaging in farming and related activities. The county is also known for its unique tourism niches which include a national Game reserve, athletics, paragliding and the people’s rich culture among other tourism activities that boost the County’s revenue. Furthermore, the County is collaborating with neighboring counties; Baringo, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot, Nandi, Turkana, Trans Nzoia and Samburu under North Rift Economic Block (NOREB) to enhance trade and investment opportunities