SUMMARY

The Kisii (also known as Gusii or AbaGusii) is a Bantu ethnic group in Kenya who mostly inhabits the Kisii highlands in Nyanza, western Kenya, and which should not be confused with the Kisi living in Tanzania. With its population of around 2,2 millions, Kisii is the sixth largest ethnic group in Kenya, representing about 6% of the total population. Kikuyu is the largest out of Kenyas more than 70 different ethnic groups. The Kikuyu makes up approximately 20% of Kenya´s population followed by Luo and Luhya (both 13% - 14%), Kamba (11%) and Kalenjin (11%). The Lou and the Luhya ethnic groups inhabit areas bordering the Kisii highlands.

These highlands are very fertile, enabling intense agriculture and resulting in the Kisii today being one of the most economic successful groups in Kenya. The group is furthermore supported by significant cash flow from a Kisii diaspora. This relative economic well-being is countered by one of Kenya´s highest unemployment rate. Many young Kisii are sent abroad to seek education, making the Kisii represented worldwide. The Kisii highlands are one of the most densely populated areas of the country, and as the region has one of the highest birth rates worldwide, the density is constantly increasing. A factor limiting this increase is the prevalence of AIDS among the Kisii. Further, the region is characterized by high rates of violence and criminality, making Kisii town, the region´s main city, the second violent city in Kenya. The Kisii are mainly Christians, with about 20% following traditional believes.

The Kisii has been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.