The Greatest Failed Raid in Kipsigis History
A century and a half ago, Kipsigis warriors were massacred at a place called Mogori Valley in Nyamira County. The fallen warriors are estimated to have been about one hundred and ten—clearly an entire generation, since the total population of the Kipsigis then was barely ten thousand. This was circa 1886.
In a classical case of pride comes before a fall, the Kipsigis warriors were cornered, waylaid and descended upon. The implication was so huge that young boys had to step in to help in procreation. To date, a mention of Borietab Mogori sends chills down the spines of the Kipsigis people.
This account is based on an interview conducted by Kalenjin Digital with Kiprono arap Kosgey, a 95-year-old elder from Cheptalal in Bomet County. His father, Kipyep Choget arap Bargetuny, was among the few survivors.
He explained that the massacre was viewed as punishment by Chepongolo (God) due to earlier transgressions committed during a raid against the Purko, a Maasai sub-group.
Traditionally, the Kipsigis adhered strictly to moral codes even during war. They did not kill children, women, the elderly, the disabled, or those who surrendered.
However, during the Purko raid, warriors broke all these rules—killing the vulnerable and burning homes—inviting divine punishment.
They also refused to undergo cleansing rituals or admit wrongdoing, further angering the spiritual order.
Warriors from Kipkoimet and Kaplelach crossed River Siyabei into Purko territory. The raid was initially successful, but instead of retreating, they committed atrocities: killing the weak and burning homes.
On their return journey, they slaughtered animals, feasted, and rested. A rescue team of Purko warriors soon appeared.
In haste, the Kipsigis warriors smeared leftover meat with dung to make it unusable— an act considered a grave taboo.
Purko women refused to cross with them and challenged the warriors to fight their men. The warriors initially agreed, but later attempted to rob the women of ornaments.
When the women resisted, the warriors cut off their limbs to remove jewelry— a brutal act that shocked even their enemies.
When Purko warriors arrived, they found their women mutilated and dying. Overcome with grief, they wanted revenge, but their leader restrained them.
Instead, he cursed the Kipsigis:
“May the blood you have shed follow you. May the cries of these women haunt you forever. May the same fate befall you.”
The Kipsigis warriors ignored the curse and returned home celebrating.
Strange events followed: snakes attacked cattle, bulls fought to death, and unusual behavior spread among young men.
Elders advised caution and cleansing rituals, but the warriors ignored them.
Even bad omens—like vultures flying ahead—were dismissed.
The warriors proceeded to raid Gusii territory and later attacked the Luo. However, they were overwhelmed and forced to retreat.
At Mogori Valley near Charachani River, they were ambushed by Gusii and Luo forces. A mysterious act by a woman (throwing ashes) darkened the battlefield.
The exhausted warriors were massacred. Very few survived. Some hid among corpses; others hid in swamps for hours.
Vultures descended and began feeding even on those still alive— fulfilling the earlier curse.
The loss wiped out nearly an entire generation. Young boys were initiated early and marriages encouraged to rebuild population.
Later, trade between Kipsigis and Gusii emerged, leading to formation of new clans.
Despite the tragedy, the community rebuilt and continued.
History teaches — pride, disobedience, and disregard for values can lead to downfall.