The Origin of the Name Moiben: Four Explanations

By William Kiptoo, gathered from members of The Wonders of Sergoit Hills Facebook group.

First shared in The Wonders of Sergoit Hills Facebook group on 4 March 2025.

Many members have been curious about the meaning and origin of the name Moiben, and the explanations they have offered are fascinating.

Some say Moiben comes from three local words, moeben, matieben and makiebeni, used by early people crossing the river; moeben is said to have meant "do not sway."

Others trace it to the Maasai language, linking it to names like Moipen and Moipei, since the Maasai once lived in the area.

Another claim gives it European roots: that it comes from Moore Ben, son of Moore and brother of Terra, hence the place names Kabomoi, Moiben and Kapterra.

And the most amusing explanation: a mzungu supposedly dropped his pen in the river and cried out, "Oh, my pen!" and Moiben was born.

No one explanation has been settled. See also other Moiben stories.

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