This archive report was first published on 5 August 2019.
Published on August 5, 2019, KBC's article highlights the lesser-known aspects of Wajir, a town in northeastern Kenya.
Wajir, meaning 'coming together' in the Boran language, is one of the largest and oldest towns in Kenya, covering an area of 55,841 square kilometers.
Contrary to the common image of the region as a desert, Wajir is home to naturally growing thickets and forests that produce the largest quantities of gums and resins in Kenya, accounting for more than half of the world's supply.
The county is also home to an abundance of livestock, with over 15.3 million animals, as well as a variety of wildlife, including giraffes and leopards.
The region's abundant sunshine makes it an ideal location for solar power generation, while the strong winds in areas like Herbaswean and the Chalbi desert border make it suitable for renewable energy generation.
Wajir's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its people, who are predominantly from the Somali community. The town is home to a national museum that showcases the county's cultural, historical, and natural heritage.
Another surprise in Wajir is the availability of an international airport, which is open daily and welcomes all types of aircraft.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities, Wajir is a destination waiting to be discovered.
