Kalenjin
- proper noun
- For example, of the 18 generals in the Kenyan Army, one-third are Kalenjin, and the Kikuyu—who outnumber them two to one in the general population—have only four generals.
- Kalenjin-dominated
Examples
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During the marathon, many Kalenjin athletes demonstrated their impressive speed and endurance.
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Many Kalenjin left Nairobi, or wished they could, fearing a Kikuyu and Luo reaction in Nairobi if Moi returned to power.
Academic text (1994) -
Amongst all the Kalenjin group that are running, there are those that can have a very low pain threshold.
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But then, there is dominance on the Kalenjin group, particularly where long-distance running is concerned.
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A similar pattern is found in lower ranks, where 7 of 20 brigadiers are Kalenjin.
Academic text (2002) -
The accession of Moi (a Kalenjin) drove Kenyatta's Kikuyu community into opposition, where they joined forces with most of the Luo community and their leaders.
Academic text (1998) -
John is proud to be a member of the Kalenjin, known for their exceptional long-distance runners.
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The Kalenjin are famous for their rich cultural traditions and contributions to athletics in Kenya.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Kalenjin is the name the group gives to itself, so a Kalenjin is a person from that community in Kenya. A helpful way to remember it is to think of it like 'Kenyan' but for this specific ethnic group.