Introduction / History

The Tugen are highland nilotes (native to Upper Nile region), a Kalenjin group also known as Kamasia. However, their primary identity has been affected by their political identity as Kalenjins. They occupy the lowlands of the Rift Valley. The Kerio Valley and Kamasia Hills bound their home west and east, respectively. The Tugen live on two levels, the Highland Tugens also known as South Tugen or Sammor, and the North Tugen also known as Arror.

Historically, they ambushed passing caravans, which is related to the cattle rustling that still goes on.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The South Tugen are mainly pastoralists but practice more agriculture because their land has adequate rainfall. The North Tugen are nomadic pastoralists but keep a few sheep and goats.

Their lowland area has little rainfall, but they are able to grow millet and maize to supplement their meat diet. The floor of the Valley gives them good grazing areas for their cows, including the Lake Baringo area. Their cattle herds are a source of great wealth and prestige. Cattle are sometimes shared for insurance. However, the North Tugen are very industrious and were the first to seek employment on the farms south of North Tugen. Their medicine men are famous among the Nandi. They are skilled in making poisonous arrows for trading with their neighbors.

Their homes are circular huts with a center post of cedar, which is designated as a sacred place for ancestors. Walls are mud-plastered and roofs are thatched with leaves. Recently, an increasing number of people are incorporating wood, stone, and other contemporary materials into their homes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Tugen Kalenjins are mostly Christian.

What Are Their Needs?

They have Bible portions, the JESUS Film, and audio gospel materials. They lack a complete Bible.

Prayer Items

Pray for a complete and accurate Bible for the Tugen Kalenjins.
Pray for Tugen Kalenjins to understand that the Lord can and will provide for all their spiritual and material needs when they put their trust in him.
Pray for revival fire to bless Tugen Kalenjin churches and families abundantly.
Pray that soon, Tugen Kalenjin churches will be preparing and sending workers to the least-reached parts of Africa.

Scripture Prayers for the Kalenjin, Tugen in Kenya.

References

Anonymous.