[Benzema]

This is my explanation why Kikuyus are in business and other industries. For the record, I am a Kikuyu who was brought in Masailand.

Part of it has to do with colonial experiences. Because Kikuyus lost land (traditional we were farmers), they had to look for something else to do. They moved to different areas. Business has been one option. Otherwise Kikuyus have been as successful in other venturers including (with all due respect) criminal activities, non-socially sanctioned activities like prostitution (our sisters handilly dominate this industry in Nairobi and are found in all other places), and farming.

Regarding hawking, most Kikuyu young men became hawkers in different parts of the country after the collapse of dairy, coffee, and tea industries in the 80s. Also, due to population explosion, the farming area can no longer provide means of the livelihoods they used to provide.

On the Asian questions, I think people in foreign land always find a niche to make money. Just this week I was talking to a Hindi friend and he told me in India, only the Gujeratis are known for business. Yet in Kenya its all Indians. In the US, the Somalis are dominating business in Minneapolis, a city that has the biggest Somali population in the US. In Ghana, the Lebanese control the businesses, in DC Ethiopians control Taxis. In Eastleigh, Somalis control the business, Ethipians own matatus. When I was permanently in Kenya, most matatu routes (14, 33, 11) were becoming dominated by the Kisiis while 58 and 23 are dominated by Kikuyus.

People of the same background seems to be attracting each other in one industry. I also think what people end up being good with is influenced by different environment factors. Mostly socio-economic. Its not a genetic trait and that is why you are calling it a myth.

I guess there are studies out there based on economic activities or population behavior.

While we are it, the myth I would like to see tested in that Luos are the most educated people in Kenya. I would like to see raw number for instance comparing them with Kikuyus.

At some point, different communities find their niche.