Many people assume that current political heavy-weights kick-started their careers with politics but that is not the case as many politicians go through the struggle before becoming who they are today.
Most if not all politicians from the Rift valley engaged in various activities before venturing into politics.
Below are some of the early careers of popular politicians from the region:
William Ruto
He has once served as a Member of Parliament for Eldoret North Constituency and he is now the country's deputy president. Prior to joining politics, DP Ruto worked as a teacher at Sugoi and Kamagut Secondary schools in the North Rift.
Kipchumba Murkomen
He is the Senator of Elgeyo Marakwet County. Before he ventured into politics he worked as a lecturer at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, the University of Nairobi and Moi University.
Joyce Laboso
The current Governor of Bomet County worked at Egerton University as a lecturer, an assistant dean of students and as an assistant lecturer. Laboso also served as a teacher at Kipsigis Girls High school.
Jackson Mandago
He is the Governor of Uasin Gishu County. Before joining politics Governor Mandago worked at the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
Stephen Arap Sang
He is the Governor of Nandi County and was elected on a Jubilee ticket. Before venturing into politics he served as a Program Officer, Emo community development. He was also an Executive Director for the Rift Valley Development Trust and a Program specialist of the USAID/Chemonics.