Kikuyu

The Kikuyu (otherwise spelled Gikuyu) is Kenya's most populous ethnic group. Their traditional land is the fertile central highlands, which means they are farmers.

The Kikuyu were one of the most active ethnic groups during the fight for independence, with many of the Mau Mau being drawn from their number. Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first president, was a Kikuyu, giving the community a foothold into politics. To this day, Kenyan politics are dominated by Kikuyu people.

One of the most famous Kikuyus is novelist Ngugi Wa Thiongo.