About Us
Colonial Era During the colonial era, Kapsabet, a town in Kenya’s Nandi region, witnessed profound changes under British rule. Initially explored by the British East Africa Company, the region came under direct British administration in 1895. Kapsabet, nestled in the heart of the Nandi Hills, became a significant administrative center. One of the most notable chapters in Kapsabet's colonial history was the Nandi resistance, a determined campaign led by the Nandi leader Koitalel arap Samoei. The Nandi people fiercely opposed colonial intrusion, resulting in the Nandi Wars (1895-1905). Despite their valiant efforts, including several battles and skirmishes where traditional warrior skills were employed, the resistance was eventually suppressed. Koitalel arap Samoei's capture and execution in 1905 marked a poignant moment in the region’s history, leaving a legacy of resistance and resilience. Following the suppression of the Nandi resistance, the British established a formal administration in Kapsabet. The town began to develop with the construction of roads, schools, and other infrastructure aimed at consolidating British control and facilitating economic activities. However, these developments primarily served the interests of the colonial administration and European settlers. Economic changes included the appropriation of land that had been communally owned by the Nandi people for European settlers and large-scale farming. This land alienation disrupted traditional agricultural practices and caused economic and social stress for the local population. Additionally, the introduction of taxes and forced labor further strained the existing social structures. Colonial rule also brought changes to the social fabric of Kapsabet. Missionaries established schools and churches, introducing Western education and Christianity, which transformed social norms and values. Despite the hardships imposed by colonial policies, Kapsabet remained a vital center in the region, navigating the complexities of colonial influence while striving to preserve its cultural identity Today, Kapsabet stands as a vibrant town with a population of approximately 41,000 (as of the 2019 census). It serves as the headquarters of Nandi County, reflecting its significance in the region. The town is predominantly inhabited by the Nandi people, a sub-group of the Kalenjin ethnic group, but also boasts a diverse population including Maragoli, Tiriki, Gussi, Somali, Indians, and Luos. Kapsabet is a predominantly Christian town with a variety of religious institutions, including the AIC Kapsabet, CITAM (Christ Is The Answer Ministries), St. Peter's Catholic Parish, ACK St. Barnabas, PAG (Pentecostal Assemblies of God), Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Deliverance Church, and Reform Church. Additionally, the town is home to a thriving Muslim and Hindu community, with mosques located in Kapsabet, Kamobo, and Tilalwo. Previously governed by the Kapsabet Municipal Council, the town's administration now falls under the Nandi County government. The first county administration was led by Cleophas Lagat (2013-2017), followed by Governor Stephen Arap Sang. Kapsabet’s economy is driven by agriculture, with large tea and maize farms, horticulture, and dairy operations. Notable institutions include the New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (New KCC) milk depot and the KTDA Chebut Tea Factory. Real estate development has surged, fueled by the advent of devolution, with numerous bank branches which include: Kenya Commercial Bank, Co-operative Bank of Kenya, Absa Bank, Kenya Women Finance Trust(KWFT), Equity Bank, National Bank of Kenya,Family Bank NCBA, Diamond Trust Bank, Boresha, Trans Elite Nandi Teachers and Nandi Hekima Saccos are based in the town. and retail stores such as Naivas Supermarket, Tiryo Supermarket, Kipchimat Supermarket, and Jubilee Supermarket establishing a presence in the town. The town also hosts several notable educational institutions, including the University of Eastern Africa Baraton, Baraton College, Olessos Technical, Mosoriot Technical, St. Paul Bible College, AIC Bible College, Kapsabet High School, and Kapsabet Girls High School. Major hospitals in the town include Kapsabet County Referral Hospital, White Crescent Hospital, Real Hospital, and several clinics. Kapsabet is renowned for producing successful long-distance runners, including legends like Rodgers Rop, Bernard Lagat, Robert, Peter Rono, Wilfred Bungei, Pamela Jelimo, Janeth Jepkosgei, and Martin Lel. The town also hosts the annual Kass FM Marathon, which begins in Kapsabet and ends in Eldoret. Strategically located, Kapsabet connects major towns such as Kisumu, Kakamega, Kericho, Eldoret, and Nakuru, with Eldoret International Airport just 30 km away via the Kapsabet-Mosoriot-Eldoret Road. Kapsabet’s journey from colonial subjugation to modern prosperity is a testament to its enduring spirit and dynamic development. The town continues to thrive, balancing its rich cultural heritage with the demands of contemporary growth and progress.