(Tangaza University College, 2003) K1pkorir, K1rlty Charles
The Kalenjin in Kenya are of nomadic origin. Having migrated in the early 9th bentury
from the present-day Sudan, where the desert life was so harsh to them, their lifestyle still
to date hinges on the traditions founded on these harsh conditions. In the desert, an
individual who is separated from histher group must be able to count without question on
the hospitality of the group through which he/she passes or he/she joins. Anyone may
have need of this help and therefore everyone must give it; this is the basis of the Law of
Hospitality and Asylum.
The history of the Kalenjin people is akin to the one of the people of Israel whose
ancestors lived as Nomads. Because of their closely-knit society, the message of John the
Baptist -the message of justice- is very central to their lives for it touches their identity.