THE SIRIKWA STORY

The Sirikwa people, correctly known as Xirikwa, once inhabited vast regions of western Kenya, parts of Central Kenya, and the Meru region. Over time, they became known by different names among neighboring communities: the Maasai called them Embogatta, the Kikuyu referred to them as Ejoe or Thiriga, the Meru knew them as Muoki, and the Luhya recognized them as Basilikwa.

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According to the Sengwer, Xirikwa was the son of King ak Tabnai, the legendary founder of the Kalenjin, and had brothers including Ilmukwan, Cherang’, Kibongom, Mitia, and Kipsengwer. The Xirikwa thrived in the region until they were gradually assimilated by the Kalenjin, Luhya, Luo, Kikuyu, Meru, and Ilmaasai peoples.

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Kikuyu folklore mentions the Thiriga people who lived in Nyeri, Nyandarua, and Murang’a—likely remnants of the Xirikwa. The name Thirikwa is believed to have evolved from Sirikwa (Xirikwa). Similarly, Luhya clans such as Basilikwa, Bakimwei, Bang’oma, and Basangalo trace their origins to the Xirikwa, some of whom eventually settled as far as South Africa.

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During Kenya’s land demarcation in 1965, Nandi County was once referred to as Sirikwa County. The Xirikwa capital was in Moiben, giving rise to the saying: “Kagogerio Xirikweek Moiben”—“things have fallen apart.” Today, the Kipsirkoik (Sirkoik) clan and the Xirikwa Mbai clan near Mount Elgon in Kapchorwa, Uganda, are among the surviving Xirikwa lineages.

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Educational institutions also carry the Xirikwa legacy, including Xirikwa Primary School in Western Cape, South Africa, Chesirikwa and Sirikwa Primary Schools in Molo, and Thirikwa Primary School in Nyandarua. Even the Basilikwa clan of the Bukusu traces its roots to the Xirikwa. These communities historically avoided areas infested with safari ants and dense simotweet plants, reflecting their unique relationship with the land.

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The Xirikwa legacy reminds us that we are all connected to this remarkable people. Their relatives include the Barabaeek of Tanzania, and their influence continues to echo across East Africa.