Since 1992 however, lawlessness has become increasingly rife and this level of insecurity has resulted in both a sharp decline in visitors and the state of the economy. Kenya is the 22 nd poorest country in the world. However, the vast majority of the country's economically active population, consist not of wage earners but of farmers and herders at a subsistence level. This poverty and associated ill-health amplifies the burden of malaria. Kisii and Gucha Districts have some of the highest infant, child and maternal mortality rates in Kenya.
Life expectancy is low, malnutrition is high and safe water and sanitation is insufficient.