South Kabras: A Comprehensive Profile of Malava Constituency's Southern Ward.

South Kabras stands as a significant administrative ward within Malava Constituency, embodying the rich cultural heritage of the Kabras people while experiencing gradual infrastructure development and property market evolution. This report explores the geographical characteristics, demographic composition, property values, and recent development initiatives that define this region in Kakamega County, Kenya.

Locations > Kakamega > Malava > South Kabras

No properties found in this location.

Geographical Context and Administrative Structure.

South Kabras is one of the seven administrative wards that constitute Malava Constituency (constituency number 201) in Kakamega County. Malava Constituency spans approximately 423.3 square kilometers and is subdivided into five divisions comprising nineteen locations and sixty sub-locations. The constituency is strategically positioned within Kakamega County, which contains a total of twelve constituencies. According to administrative records, South Kabras represents a substantial portion of the constituency’s population base with approximately 21,192 adult residents.

Malava Constituency is bordered by several other administrative areas within Kakamega County and serves as home to diverse communities. The broader constituency is situated between Kakamega and Webuye townships, providing South Kabras with relative proximity to urban amenities while maintaining its predominantly rural character. This geographical positioning influences both development patterns and property valuations in the area.

Demographic Composition.

The population dynamics of South Kabras reflect both historical settlement patterns and contemporary growth trends. Based on the 2009 National Population and Housing Census, Malava Constituency had a total population of 205,166, which was projected to reach 227,658 by 2012. As one of the seven wards, South Kabras contributes significantly to this demographic profile, hosting communities primarily from the Kabras subtribe of the larger Luhya ethnic group.

The ward’s population distribution follows patterns typical of rural Kenya, with settlements concentrated along major transportation routes and around community focal points such as markets, schools, and administrative centers. This distribution pattern influences property values and infrastructure development priorities throughout the ward.

Cultural Heritage and Community Structure.

South Kabras derives its name and cultural identity from the Kabras (also known as Kabarasi) people, a subtribe of the Luhya community that has historically inhabited this region. The Kabras people speak Lukabaras, a dialect similar to Tachoni, and maintain distinct cultural practices despite growing integration with neighboring communities.

Historically, the Kabras were under the rulership of Nabongo Mumia, the king of the Wanga, and were represented by an elder in his Council of Elders. Their adaptable nature has allowed them to absorb various cultural values and beliefs over time, as evidenced by the practice of both Christianity and Islam alongside traditional cultural observances. Notable cultural practices include male circumcision ceremonies and the requirement of bride-price for marriage, traditions that continue to influence social organization in South Kabras today.

Land and Property Market Dynamics: 50 by 100 Plots for Sale in South Kabras, Malava - Land Prices.

The property market in South Kabras and surrounding areas of Malava Constituency shows varied pricing patterns based on location, accessibility, and land use potential. Current market indicators reveal the following pricing trends:

Standard residential plots (50 by 100 feet) in Malava are priced at approximately KSh 400,000, with properties closer to main roads commanding premium prices3.
Half-acre plots in the broader Malava area, including those in proximity to South Kabras, range from KSh 550,000 to KSh 1,500,000, with the higher prices typically associated with plots located along or near major roadways.
Land with strategic commercial potential, particularly parcels along the Kakamega-Webuye road, commands significantly higher prices, with half-acre plots reaching KSh 1,500,000 or more.

The variation in land prices reflects several factors including proximity to urban centers, accessibility via road networks, availability of utilities, and potential for agricultural or commercial development. Properties with access to water and electricity typically command premium prices compared to undeveloped parcels.

Rental House and Apartment for Sale in South Kabras, Malava - Residential and Commercial Property Market.

The residential property market in South Kabras remains primarily characterized by traditional homesteads and increasingly, modern residential structures. While comprehensive data specific to South Kabras is limited, broader trends in Malava indicate:

Commercial properties, particularly in Malava Township, represent significant investments, such as the Jos Villa Guest House, a three-storey commercial block comprising shops, restaurant facilities, and guest rooms.
Residential developments behind Malava Market include apartment complexes, with one listing showing 12 apartments (two bedrooms each) priced at KSh 24,000,000.
The rental market for residential properties appears less developed in South Kabras specifically, as evidenced by the absence of market data for houses for rent in the area.

The property market is influenced by regional economic conditions and remains sensitive to interest rate fluctuations, with predictions of modest growth as national interest rates potentially decrease in 2025.

Recent Infrastructure Developments.

South Kabras has benefited from several significant infrastructure projects in recent years, enhancing community access to essential services:

Water Infrastructure.

A notable development is the Lukume water project, valued at Sh14 million, which has substantially improved water access for approximately 6,000 residents in water-scarce villages of Malava. This project, financed by East African Breweries Limited and implemented by Amref Health Africa, comprises:

A borehole at Lukala
A 50,000-liter elevated steel tank at Lukume market
A 6.4-kilometer distribution network
Three water kiosks serving residents in parts of Kabras West, South Kabras, and Ingotse-Matiha wards
Water supply to four schools and one health facility

The water project represents a sustainable community initiative with water priced at Sh3 per 20-liter jerrycan, managed by a trained community-based committee with a dedicated bank account to ensure long-term maintenance.

Road Infrastructure.

Road development initiatives affecting South Kabras include:

Planned upgrade of the Kambi ya Mwanza-Lukume all-weather road to bitumen standard, which will enhance connectivity within the ward.
Construction of the Bukhakunga-Musuma Bridge, improving cross-ward transportation.

While road infrastructure remains a significant concern for residents, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has noted limitations in addressing all road needs simultaneously, as roads primarily fall under county and national government jurisdiction.

Healthcare Facilities.

Healthcare infrastructure development includes plans to construct a new dispensary at Shikutse that will include a maternity wing, aimed at improving healthcare service delivery and reducing pressure on the neighboring Shihome Dispensary in South Kabras Ward.

Agricultural Infrastructure.

A major development initiative is the completion of the Tumbeni dairy plant within Malava Sub-County, promised by Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa to be operational within the financial year. This facility is expected to benefit dairy farmers from multiple sub-counties including Malava, Lugari, Matete, and Likuyani, creating significant economic opportunities through dairy value chain enhancement.

Economic Activities and Development Outlook.

The economy of South Kabras is predominantly agricultural, with residents engaged in livestock rearing and cultivation of crops including maize and sugarcane. The planned completion of the Tumbeni dairy plant represents a significant opportunity for economic diversification and value addition in the agricultural sector.

The appointment of a new Constituency Development Fund (CDF) manager, Humphrey Sechero/Sechelo, has brought renewed focus on completing ongoing projects and implementing new priority initiatives based on community needs. The CDF management has emphasized education, security, and environmental projects as key focus areas, with public participation incorporated into budget preparation processes.

Conclusion.

South Kabras ward in Malava Constituency presents a region in transition, balancing traditional cultural values with emerging development opportunities. The property market shows moderate pricing with growth potential, particularly along major transportation corridors. Recent and planned infrastructure developments, particularly in water, healthcare, and agricultural processing, indicate positive development trajectories that will likely enhance living standards and economic opportunities for residents.

While challenges remain in road infrastructure and comprehensive service delivery, the collaborative efforts between constituency leadership, county government, and external partners demonstrate a commitment to addressing community priorities. For potential investors and residents, South Kabras offers relatively affordable land prices compared to urban centers, with strategic opportunities in agricultural processing and trading activities enhanced by ongoing infrastructure improvements.

1. What are the current house prices in West Kabras?

2. How much does land cost per acre in Kabras?

3. Are there any recent infrastructure developments in Butali/Chegulo?

4. What types of properties are available for sale in Shirugu-Mugai?

5. How has the population growth in South Kabras affected property prices?