Laikipia

The name Laikipia means 'treeless plain' in the Maasai language, an apt description of the county, which is a vast plain where both wildlife and domestic animals roam freely on the rangelands of the savanna. It covers an area of over 9,500 km2, about the same size as Puerto Rico, or Cyprus. The county is on the north-west of Mt. Kenya - leeward side, and therefore receives less rainfall and has less vegetation.

Crop cultivation and livestock keeping are the main sources of livelihood. They contribute 75% of household incomes, and employ 60% of the population. 

According to the Kenya Bureau of Statistics, Laikipia County has a multidimensional poverty rate of 63%. About 43% of the inhabitants are in absolute poverty, while at least 30% rely on food aid during food shortages. 

The lack of infrastructure, conflicts/insecurity, drought/famine, and unemployment are major challenges. 

Nationwide, 35% of Kenyans are youth, with a staggering 67% unemployment rate!