Discover the complete list of 47 counties in Kenya with their headquarters and governors. Check out a map of all counties in Kenya and find out which is the smallest in land size. Explore Kenya’s diverse regions and learn more about its administrative divisions with this comprehensive list of counties.
Kenya is divided into 47 counties, each with its government and administration. The county numbers range from 1 to 47, each with a unique name. A list of the 47 counties in Kenya includes their respective headquarters and governors. The counties were established in 2010 under the new constitution to bring services closer to the people. They are also meant to promote regional development and equitable distribution of resources. To locate each county, one can refer to a map of Kenya showing all counties. The smallest county in Kenya in terms of land size is Mombasa, which covers an area of approximately 219.7 square kilometers.
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About Kenya and the Devolved Counties
Situated in East Africa, Kenya is renowned for its diverse culture, abundant natural resources, and exceptional wildlife. The devolved system of government, introduced in 2013, resulted in the creation of 47 counties, each with its unique identity, culture, and geography. Under this system, governors head the counties and deliver services to their regions. This approach has brought about greater autonomy and efficiency in the administration of public services, allowing each county to tailor its approach to meet the unique needs of its residents.
47 Counties in Kenya and Their Headquarters
Each of the 47 counties in Kenya has a unique headquarters where the governor and other county officials are based. For example, Nairobi County’s headquarters is in Nairobi City, while Mombasa County’s headquarters is in Mombasa Town. The counties are also known for their cultural practices, languages, and natural resources. For example, Kisumu County is known for Lake Victoria, while Kilifi County is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts.
Here is a list of all 47 counties in Kenya and their headquarters.
| Code | County Name | County Headquarters |
| 001 | Mombasa | Mombasa City |
| 002 | Kwale | Kwale |
| 003 | Kilifi | Kilifi |
| 004 | Tana River | Hola |
| 005 | Lamu | Lamu |
| 006 | Taita–Taveta | Mwatate |
| 007 | Garissa | Garissa |
| 008 | Wajir | Wajir |
| 009 | Mandera | Mandera |
| 010 | Marsabit | Marsabit |
| 011 | Isiolo | Isiolo |
| 012 | Meru | Meru |
| 013 | Tharaka-Nithi | Kathwana |
| 014 | Embu | Embu |
| 015 | Kitui | Kitui |
| 016 | Machakos | Machakos |
| 017 | Makueni | Wote |
| 018 | Nyandarua | Ol Kalou |
| 019 | Nyeri | Nyeri |
| 020 | Kirinyaga | Kerugoya |
| 021 | Murang’a | Murang’a |
| 022 | Kiambu | Kiambu |
| 023 | Turkana | Lodwar |
| 024 | West Pokot | Kapenguria |
| 025 | Samburu | Maralal |
| 026 | Trans-Nzoia | Kitale |
| 027 | Uasin Gishu | Eldoret |
| 028 | Elgeyo-Marakwet | Iten |
| 029 | Nandi | Kapsabet |
| 030 | Baringo | Kabarnet |
| 031 | Laikipia | Nanyuki |
| 032 | Nakuru | Nakuru City |
| 033 | Narok | Narok |
| 034 | Kajiado | Kajiado |
| 035 | Kericho | Kericho |
| 036 | Bomet | Bomet |
| 037 | Kakamega | Kakamega |
| 038 | Vihiga | Mbale |
| 039 | Bungoma | Bungoma |
| 040 | Busia | Busia |
| 041 | Siaya | Siaya |
| 042 | Kisumu | Kisumu City |
| 043 | Homa Bay | Homa Bay |
| 044 | Migori | Migori |
| 045 | Kisii | Kisii |
| 046 | Nyamira | Nyamira |
| 047 | Nairobi | Nairobi City |
Counties in Kenya and Their Governors
The citizens elect the governors of each county and are responsible for developing and managing the county’s resources. They work closely with other county officials to implement programs and policies to improve people’s lives in their respective counties. The county government is responsible for health services, agriculture, roads, water, and sanitation.
The table below lists all 47 counties in Kenya and their governors.
Code |
County Name |
Governor |
|---|---|---|
Counties in Kenya Map
The map of Kenya shows the location of the 47 counties, their boundaries, and the capital cities. The map is an important tool for anyone seeking to understand the geography and demographics of the country. It also shows the different regions and ecosystems in the country, including the forests, grasslands, and deserts.
Which County is Largest in Kenya?
The size of the counties in Kenya varies, with some being larger than others. The largest county in Kenya is Turkana County, which covers an area of about 68,680 square kilometers. It is located in the country’s northwestern part and is known for its vast deserts, lakes, and wildlife reserves.
How Many Counties in Kenya?
Kenya has a total of 47 counties.
Which County is Smallest in Kenya?
The smallest county in Kenya is Lamu, located in the country’s coastal region. Lamu County covers an area of 6,273 square kilometers and has a population of about 143,920 people. The county is known for its rich Swahili culture, beaches, and the Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Related Article: List of all 47 Governors 2022 and their Parties
Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya’s Counties
Here are 15 frequently asked questions with answers about Kenya’s 47 counties:
1. What are Kenya’s 47 counties?
Kenya is divided into 47 counties, each with its own government and administrative structures.
2. When were Kenya’s 47 counties established?
Kenya’s 47 counties were established by the 2010 Constitution, promulgated on August 27, 2010.
3. What is the capital city of Kenya’s counties?
Each county has its own capital city or town, which serves as the county’s administrative center.
4. What is the population of Kenya’s counties?
The population of Kenya’s counties varies, with Nairobi County being the most populous and Lamu County being the least populous.
5. How are Kenya’s counties governed?
Each county has a government headed by a governor who the people elect.
6. What is the role of county governments in Kenya?
County governments are responsible for providing a range of services to their citizens, including health care, education, and infrastructure development.
7. How are county governments funded in Kenya?
The national government funds county governments through a revenue-sharing formula enshrined in the Constitution.
8. What is the relationship between Kenya’s national and county governments?
Kenya’s national and county governments are co-equal and interdependent, with each level of government responsible for different functions.
9. How many counties are in Kenya’s Rift Valley region?
The Rift Valley region of Kenya is home to 14 counties, including Nakuru, Baringo, and Uasin Gishu.
10. How many counties are in Kenya’s Coastal region?
Kenya’s Coastal region is home to six counties, including Mombasa, Kilifi, and Taita Taveta.
11. How many counties are in Kenya’s Northern region?
The Northern region of Kenya is home to five counties, including Marsabit, Wajir, and Mandera.
12. What is the largest county in Kenya by land area?
Turkana County is the largest county in Kenya by land area, covering 68,680 square kilometers.
13. What is the smallest county in Kenya by land area?
Mombasa County is the smallest county in Kenya by land area, covering just 212 square kilometers.
14. Which county is home to Kenya’s capital city?
Nairobi County is home to Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi.
15. What are some major economic activities in Kenya’s counties?
The major economic activities in Kenya’s counties include agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and service industries such as finance and healthcare.
In Conclusion
The 47 counties in Kenya are an important feature of the country’s political and administrative landscape. They are responsible for managing and developing their respective regions and play a crucial role in the country’s economic growth and social development. The list of 47 counties in Kenya includes some of the most diverse regions in the country, ranging from the cosmopolitan Nairobi to the rural areas of West Pokot and Marsabit. Understanding the counties and their unique features is essential for anyone interested in exploring Kenya and its culture.
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