Kikuyu, Kenya

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Kikuyu, Kenya

Region: Kiambu

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Geographic Coordinates: -1.250000, 36.666700

Climate: Seasonal.

Population: 323881

Language: Kikuyu

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Kikuyu is a town located in the central region of Kenya, About 20 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, The capital city. The town sits at an altitude of 1, 800 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green hills and valleys. Kikuyu has a population of around 100, 000 people and is predominantly inhabited by members of the Kikuyu tribe. Kikuyu has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times when it was a major center for trade between the coastal region and the interior highlands.

The town was also an important agricultural hub where crops such as coffee, Tea, Maize, Beans, And potatoes were grown on large plantations owned by British settlers. One of the main attractions in Kikuyu is its vibrant market which takes place every Wednesday at Kamangu shopping center. Here you can find all sorts of goods ranging from fresh produce to second-hand clothes, Electronics to traditional crafts. The market provides an excellent opportunity to experience local culture and interact with friendly locals who are always happy to chat with visitors.

Another popular attraction in Kikuyu is the PCEA Church which was established in 1895 by Scottish missionaries. The church played a significant role in spreading Christianity throughout Kenya during colonial times and today it remains one of the largest Protestant denominations in Kenya with over three million members. For nature lovers, Kereita Forest offers an excellent hiking trail that winds through dense forests filled with exotic bird species such as hornbills and turacos. Visitors can also enjoy zip-lining across treetops or mountain biking on challenging terrain while taking in stunning views of rolling hillsides covered in tea plantations.

The nearby Karura Forest Reserve provides another great opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure or relaxation amidst nature’s beauty. Visitors can explore miles upon miles of walking trails that wind through lush vegetation filled with indigenous flora like giant bamboo and wildflowers. Kikuyu is a town that has something for everyone, From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore the town’s vibrant markets, Visit historic landmarks such as the PCEA Church or immerse themselves in nature by hiking through Kereita or Karura Forests.

With friendly locals always ready to welcome visitors with open arms, Kikuyu offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

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1. Karura Forest Reserve
2. Kiambethu Tea Farm
3. Kereita Forest
4. Fourteen Falls
5. Ngong Hills
6. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage
7. Giraffe Centre
8. Nairobi National Park
9. Bomas of Kenya
10. Nairobi Arboretum

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1. Agriculture (tea, coffee, horticulture)
2. Healthcare services (including hospitals and clinics)
3. Education (schools and universities)
4. Real estate development
5. Retail trade (including supermarkets and shopping malls)
6. Hospitality industry (hotels and restaurants)
7. Transportation services
8. Construction industry
9. Banking and finance sector

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1. The Mau Mau Uprising was a rebellion against British colonial rule that started in 1952 and ended in 1960. The Kikuyu people played a significant role in this movement.
2. Jomo Kenyatta was a prominent leader of the Kenyan independence movement, and he became Kenya’s first president after gaining independence from Britain in 1963. He was also a member of the Kikuyu community.
3. Wangari Maathai was an environmental activist, women’s rights advocate, and Nobel Peace Prize winner who hailed from the Kikuyu community.
4. Dedan Kimathi was a military strategist and leader of the Mau Mau rebellion against British colonial rule in Kenya.
5. Waiyaki wa Hinga is remembered as a legendary Kikuyu chief who fought against British colonialism before being betrayed by his own people and executed by the British in 1894.
6. Mary Wambui served as Member of Parliament for Othaya constituency between 2007 to 2017, becoming one of few female MPs from the Kikuyu community.
7. Karanja Njoroge is an accomplished lawyer and human rights activist who has defended victims of human rights abuses during both colonialism and post-independence periods in Kenya, particularly among Kikuyus affected by political violence.
8. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o is an acclaimed author, playwright, and literary critic who has written extensively about African history, culture, politics; including works that touch on issues affecting members of his own Kikuyu community such as A Grain Of Wheat (1967) or Petals Of Blood (1978).

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1. Kikuyu Cultural Centre is a museum that displays the traditional culture and lifestyle of the Kikuyu people.
2. Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies is a research institute that promotes sustainable development and environmental conservation.
3. Karura Forest Reserve is a protected forest area with hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic spots.
4. The Kiambu County Assembly Building serves as the seat of government for Kiambu county and is an architectural masterpiece.
5. The Dedan Kimathi Monument is a statue commemorating the life of Dedan Kimathi, who led the Mau Mau rebellion against British colonial rule.
6. The National Museum of Kenya (Nairobi) has exhibits on Kenya’s history, culture, wildlife, and geology and is located just outside Kikuyu in Nairobi.
7. Nairobi National Park is home to lions, giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife; it’s also located in Nairobi but easily accessible from Kikuyu.
8. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage (Nairobi) allows visitors to see baby elephants being cared for by dedicated keepers before they are released back into the wild; it’s another attraction in Nairobi worth visiting!

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1. Kikuyu Cultural Festival: This annual festival showcases the rich traditions and customs of the Kikuyu people, including music, dance, food, and art.
2. Njata Dance Festival: This festival celebrates the traditional Njata dance of the Kikuyu people, which is performed during important events such as weddings and funerals.
3. Muthurwa Market Fair: This event takes place in Kikuyu town and features a variety of local products such as textiles, crafts, and food.
4. Kiambaa Farmers Market: This weekly market offers fresh produce from local farmers in Kiambaa village.
5. Thika Road Carnival: This colorful parade celebrates Kenyan culture with music, dance performances, and street vendors selling traditional foods.
6. Ngong Hills Hike: The Ngong Hills are a popular hiking destination for locals and visitors alike to enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Karura Forest Walks: Karura Forest is a protected area near Nairobi that offers guided walks through its lush vegetation while learning about its history and conservation efforts.
8. Jamhuri Day Celebration: Celebrated on December 12th every year to commemorate Kenya’s independence from British colonial rule in 1963 with parades, speeches by government officials among other activities.

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1. Nyama Choma: This is a popular Kenyan dish consisting of grilled meat, usually beef or goat, served with Ugali (a type of maize meal) and vegetables.
2. Mukimo: A traditional Kikuyu dish made from mashed potatoes, beans, maize and greens.
3. Githeri: A stew made from boiled beans and maize.
4. Irio: Another traditional Kikuyu dish made from mashed potatoes, peas and corn.
5. Mama’s Kitchen Restaurant: This restaurant serves a variety of Kenyan dishes including Nyama Choma, Githeri and Mukimo.
6. Kamangu Restaurant: A popular restaurant in Kikuyu that specializes in Nyama Choma and other grilled meats.
7. Wambui’s Kitchen: This restaurant serves authentic Kenyan food including Irio, Githeri and Mukimo.
8. The Green Garden Restaurant & Bar: A family-friendly restaurant that offers a range of African dishes including Nyama Choma and Ugali with Sukuma Wiki (collard greens).
9. The Bistro Cafe & Grill House: Located at the Eden Gardens Hotel just outside Kikuyu town this restaurant offers continental cuisine as well as local favorites such as Nyama Choma served with Ugali or Chapati (flatbread).

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1. Kikuyu Botanical Garden
2. Karura Forest Reserve
3. Ngong Hills
4. Paradise Lost Resort and Spa
5. Nairobi National Park
6. Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park
7. Oloolua Nature Trail
8. Fourteen Falls
9. The Giraffe Centre
10. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage

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