Peace paves the way for tourism rebirth in Baringo County

Just a few months ago, the beauty of Baringo County lay hidden behind headlines of cattle rustling and bandit attacks.

Now, with renewed peace and strategic government intervention, the county is reclaiming its rightful place as one of Kenya’s most breathtaking tourist destinations.

From the shimmering waters of Lake Baringo to the steamy geysers of Lake Bogoria, Baringo is an untouched canvas of nature, raw, wild and captivating.

For years, these treasures have remained underexplored, their potential stifled by insecurity. But that tide is turning.

At the heart of this transformation is Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU), a government-led security initiative that has brought relative calm to a region long plagued by violence.

The operation has led to the reopening of schools, the return of displaced families, and the cautious reawakening of economic activity. Tourism, once crippled by fear, is among the sectors now finding new life.

In a notable reflection of the improved security and growing confidence in the region, this year’s edition of the Rhino Charge off-road motorsport event was also held in Baringo County.

Organisers of the annual conservation fundraiser cited the county’s prevailing peace, now largely attributed to the success of Operation Maliza Uhalifu,  as a key factor in their decision to choose the remote Saimo-Soi area in Baringo North Sub-County as the venue.

The event, known for raising funds to protect Kenya’s water towers, also served as a powerful symbol of peace-building and resilience in the region.

During a recent Jukwaa La Usalama town hall in Baringo, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stood before residents, leaders, and law enforcement officers with a message of hope.

“In Baringo, we have different kinds of scenery, including lakes, rivers, hills, birds, and wildlife. This is an opportunity to encourage many people to visit the county and experience the scenic views,” he said, pointing to the region’s rich ecological and cultural assets.

Indeed, Baringo is home to an astonishing range of attractions.

The county boasts two Ramsar-listed sites, Lake Bogoria and Lake Baringo, famous for their flamingos, rare bird species, and geothermal wonders.

The Tugen Hills, Korossi Volcano, and Cheploch Gorge offer dramatic landscapes perfect for hiking and bird watching, while reserves like Lake Kamnarok and Kaptuya Conservancy shelter wildlife, from elephants and buffaloes to zebras, giraffes, leopards and kudus.

But peace is only part of the equation. The government is pairing security efforts with development to make Baringo not only safer but also investment-ready.

Roads are being constructed deep into areas like Tiaty, new police stations are being established, and the administrative presence is being strengthened to reassure both residents and visitors.

This deliberate push is already opening up doors. Tourist establishments like Soi Safari Lodge and Lake Bogoria Spa Resort are seeing renewed interest.

Community-based conservancies such as Ruko Wildlife Conservancy, cultural hubs like Kipsaraman Museum and adventure spots like Kursalal Falls in the Lembus Forest are positioning themselves for a boom.

Even lesser-known gems like the Reptile Park and Kabarnet National Museum are regaining attention.

Baringo is also in the running for Global Geopark status, a UNESCO designation that recognises sites of geological significance. The status could elevate the county’s profile globally if awarded, drawing in researchers, eco-tourists and conservation partnerships.

Still, challenges remain.

Murkomen was candid in his remarks. “I reiterate my earlier call to bandits to surrender their arms before we embark on a comprehensive disarmament. We will also be firm on police officers and civil servants who are abetting the trade in illicit alcohol,” he warned, underscoring the need for discipline and transparency across the board.

The CS emphasised that tourism is more than an economic lever; it is a statement of confidence in the region’s future.

Through targeted policy reforms, marketing and private sector engagement, the Ministry of Interior and its partners hope to build a competitive, resilient tourism sub-sector that uplifts the lives of locals.

With him were key national and county leaders, among them Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan, and a host of MPs and MCAs, all united in a vision for a peaceful, prosperous Baringo.

As the sun sets behind the rugged Tugen Hills, casting a golden glow over the still waters of Lake Baringo, the dream of a vibrant tourism economy is no longer just a possibility, it is taking shape. And this time, it’s built on peace.