Sosian and Laikipia North Constituency: A Comprehensive Overview

Laikipia North Constituency is a region in Kenya with unique geographical, demographic, and economic characteristics. This report explores the area facts, real estate market, and infrastructure developments in Sosian and the broader Laikipia North region.

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Geographic and Demographic Profile

Laikipia North is one of three constituencies in Laikipia County, established for the 2013 elections. It covers approximately 2,295.50 square kilometers and is classified among Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties. According to the 2019 census, the population stands at 36,184, a significant increase from 22,696 recorded in 2009. The gender distribution is nearly equal, with 18,067 males (49.9%) and 18,116 females (50.1%).

The constituency is divided into four county assembly wards:

Mukogodo West Ward
Mukogodo East Ward
Sosian Ward
Segera Ward

The region is governed by Member of Parliament Honorable Sarah Lekorere, with a stated vision “to be a model constituency in application of National Government Constituency Development Fund for socio-economic development”.

Sosian: A Unique Wildlife Conservancy and Ranch

Sosian itself is a pristine 24,000-acre wildlife conservancy located in the heart of Laikipia’s wild bush and savannah. It features an exclusive safari lodge set against the majestic backdrop of Mount Kenya. Originally built in the 1920s, Sosian was abandoned in the 1990s before being restored as a riding and game-viewing base in 2002.

Sosian functions as a dual-purpose property:

A working cattle ranch with a 2,500-head herd of Boran cattle (the largest stud Boran herd in Kenya)
A luxury safari lodge with an elegant yet informal atmosphere

The main building is designed in an Argentine estancia-style, featuring a ranch house with panoramic views across lawns to the remote savannah of north-west Laikipia, close to the Ewaso Narok River.

Cultural and Community Aspects

Sosian is situated at the intersection of three diverse communities: the Samburu, Turkana, and Pokot tribes, each with their own fascinating cultures and traditions. The broader Laikipia region is also home to indigenous Maasai communities.

The area is remote and rural with limited development and infrastructure. Businesses like Sosian play a crucial role as employers in this challenging economic environment. Sosian employs approximately 120 people from neighboring communities, directly supporting about 700-800 people through these employment opportunities.

Real Estate Market: House for Sale in Sosian, Laikipia North - Housing Prices

The housing market in Laikipia County shows varying price points based on location, size, and amenities. Although most available data focuses on Nanyuki (a major town in Laikipia County), these prices provide insight into the broader regional market:

4-bedroom house in Muthaiga, Nanyuki: KSh 35 million
4-bedroom house in Sweetwaters area, Nanyuki: KSh 15 million
3-bedroom apartment in Mugambi Estate, Nanyuki: KSh 12 million
3-bedroom apartment in Bongo Apartments, Nanyuki: KSh 12 million
Holiday cottage in Nanyuki (gated community): KSh 6.2-6.5 million (unfurnished/furnished)
Residential/Commercial Rondavel House on 2.2 acres: KSh 12 million

Land for Sale in Sosian, Laikipia North – Land Prices

Land prices in Laikipia vary significantly based on location, size, and intended use:

Average land price in Laikipia: KSh 849,000, with prices ranging as high as KSh 1.2 billion depending on size and location
25.5 acres in Laikipia North Constituency (Mugogodo East Ward): KSh 38 million (approximately KSh 1.49 million per acre)
Commercial land in Laikipia shows diverse pricing:
- Prime agricultural land in Wiyumiririe: KSh 1.6 million per acre
- Land in Laikipia West: KSh 350,000 per acre
- Land in Ngobit: KSh 950,000 per acre
- Large tracts in Laikipia County: KSh 180,000 per acre
- Premium land in Nanyuki: approximately KSh 12.8 million per acre

Infrastructure Development

Laikipia County has undertaken significant infrastructure initiatives to improve connectivity and economic development, particularly in the previously underserved northern regions.

Road Network Improvement

The National Youth Service (NYS) is actively opening new transport corridors in Laikipia North to enhance communication and commerce. Key projects include:

Upgrading 42 kilometers of roads to all-weather standards:
- 19-kilometer stretch from Chumvi Bridge to Arjijo Junction
- 23 kilometers linking Dol-dol to Seki in Isiolo County.
Progress on the 29-kilometer Timau-Mia Moja-Arjijo Road, with 10 kilometers already constructed.
Various bridge construction projects including Muramati Bridge, Gachuero Bridge, and Chumvi Bridge

Using the NYS for these projects offers significant cost advantages, with savings of over KSh 600,000 per kilometer compared to conventional contractors. The government expects to save approximately KSh 24 million on the 40 kilometers being developed by NYS.

Smart Towns Initiative

Laikipia County has commenced the utilization of a KSh 1.16 billion infrastructure bond, financing approximately 16 projects aimed at spurring economic growth. A key component is the Smart Towns program, which will establish 10 smart towns across the county:

Karuga in Laikipia West is the first beneficiary with about KSh 96 million investment
The project includes constructing 1.2 kilometers of bitumen standard roads, street lighting, 4.4 kilometers of footpaths, and drainage systems
Other towns expected to benefit include Doldol (in Laikipia North), Rumuruti, Ol Jabet, Naibor, Wiyumiririe, Kinamba, Kalalu, Mugwarak, and Pesi

This infrastructure bond is notable as Laikipia is the first county since the inception of the devolved government to float such a bond in the stock market, with a seven-year repayment period.

Water Infrastructure

Recognizing water as a critical resource in this semi-arid region, Laikipia County has developed a comprehensive 20-year Water Masterplan. The five-year strategy includes:

Rehabilitation of 231 dams and pans
Development of 130 boreholes (including Murungai Borehole, Tetu Borehole, and Arjiju borehole already in progress)
Construction of five mega-dams and 15 privately developed dams
Expansion of bulk water supply schemes across the county.

These water projects aim to connect 40,000 households to water and facilitate irrigation of 50,000 hectares. The initiative is expected to provide adequate water for both consumption and production, enabling crop cultivation and livestock fodder production. A significant anticipated benefit is the reduction of border conflicts over grazing grounds that frequently occur in the region.

Conclusion

Sosian and the broader Laikipia North Constituency represent a unique blend of wildlife conservation, cattle ranching, and traditional communities. The area faces challenges typical of semi-arid regions but possesses significant potential for growth through tourism, agriculture, and ranching. Recent infrastructure investments in roads, urban development, and water systems signal a commitment to improving the region’s economic prospects and quality of life.

The real estate market shows considerable variation in pricing, reflecting the diverse nature of the region, from remote ranching areas to more developed urban centers like Nanyuki. As infrastructure continues to improve, land values in Laikipia North are likely to appreciate, particularly in areas benefiting directly from new roads and water access.

1. What are the current house prices in Segera?

2. How much does land cost per acre in Mukogodo East?

3. What recent infrastructure developments have taken place in Mukogodo West?

4. Are there any upcoming projects planned for Igwamiti Salama?

5. How does the cost of living in Marmanet compare to other areas in Laikipia?