On March 21st, the Africa Youth Leadership Forum (AYLF), Kabarak University Main and City Campus Chapters embarked on a transformative field excursion to Elgeyo Marakwet County. This journey was designed as a blend of academic research and a vivid exploration of rural realities. While the team visited iconic landmarks such as the Chebloch Gorge, the Kolol area, and the stunning Torok waterfall, the experience was deeply shaped by the visible challenges of infrastructure and accessibility that define the region.

The students quickly observed that the natural beauty of the county stands in stark contrast to its logistical hurdles. Roads leading into residential villages were found to be largely impassable, resulting in slow and demanding travel. This rugged terrain has made motorbikes the only reliable means of transport, a reality that highlights the daily difficulties local communities face when trying to access vital markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the absence of electricity in many visited areas underscored significant economic and social limitations, from restricted business growth to limited access to modern conveniences.

For the Kabarak University family, this trip was more than a simple academic exercise; it was a powerful lesson in economic studies and sustainable development. By witnessing how infrastructure gaps can hinder progress despite a wealth of natural resources, students engaged in meaningful discussions about the urgent need for investment in basic services. We return not only with research data but with a profound appreciation for the resilience of local communities and a renewed commitment to finding solutions that bridge the gap between natural wealth and economic progress.