Kipsigis Homestead

Structure of a Kipsigis Homestead

A traditional Kipsigis homestead is carefully organized with specific sections for family life, livestock, rituals, and social interaction.

Each part of the compound has a defined purpose and cultural significance.

Inside the Main House (Kamosop)

• Kurgat / Musereita – Door (made from muserech tree)
• Inchoor / Nchoor – Sitting room
• Tootet / Suum – Bedroom
• Itook – Bed
• Koima / Koitab Ma – Fireplace
• Kipeelkonyan – Space between fireplace and wall (used by women for cooking items)
• Saanet / Saana – Hanging place for utensils
• Kapsotoon – Storage for calabashes
• Taboot / Tabuut – Ceiling

Outside the Homestead

• Olmarich / Mogoto – Gate (distinct but related)
• Kook – Sitting place for men
• Mabwai – Altar (sacred, located east of the house)
• Kaapmetet – Sitting place for women (usually west side)
• Piutab Tuga / Kaaptich – Cattle enclosure
• Kaapmoen – Calves enclosure
• Kaaptich / Singiroino – Men’s hut near cattle enclosure (for security)
• Kapmosoop / Mosoop – Main house for parents
• Choogo / Chooget – Granary