What Are The 47 Counties In Kenya and Why They Matter

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What Are the 47 Counties in Kenya?

When asking what are the 47 counties in Kenya, it’s essential to understand the country’s administrative structure. Kenya, a country located in East Africa, is divided into 47 counties, each with its unique cultural identity, economic activities, and geographical features. These counties were established in 2013, replacing the previous provinces, and are now the top-most tier of divisions in the country.

History of County Formation in Kenya

The concept of devolution in Kenya dates back to the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution that the country adopted a decentralized system of governance. The Constitution established the 47 counties, which were previously referred to as districts, as the units of devolution. This move aimed to promote grassroots development, enhance accountability, and bring services closer to the people.

The 47 counties in Kenya were created to replace the previous eight provinces, which were often criticized for being too large and inefficient. The county system was designed to be more responsive to local needs, with each county having its own government, comprising a governor, deputy governor, and members of the county assembly.

Functions of Counties in Kenya

The 47 counties in Kenya have various functions, which are enshrined in the Constitution. Some of the key functions include:

  • Health services: Counties are responsible for providing healthcare services, including the management of hospitals and health centers.
  • Education: Counties are involved in the provision of education services, including the construction and maintenance of schools.
  • Infrastructure development: Counties are responsible for the development and maintenance of infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
  • Agriculture: Counties are involved in the promotion of agriculture, including the provision of extension services and support to farmers.
  • Trade and commerce: Counties are responsible for promoting trade and commerce, including the licensing of businesses and the collection of revenue.

In addition to these functions, counties in Kenya are also responsible for the management of natural resources, including forests, water resources, and wildlife. They also play a critical role in disaster management and emergency response.

What Are the 47 Counties in Kenya?

Now that we’ve explored the history and functions of counties in Kenya, let’s take a closer look at what are the 47 counties in Kenya. Here’s a list of all the counties, grouped into regions:

Nairobi County is the capital city of Kenya and is located in the former Central Province.

The former Coast Province comprises the following counties:

  • Mombasa County
  • Kwale County
  • Kilifi County
  • Tana River County
  • Lamu County

The former Eastern Province comprises the following counties:

  • Embu County
  • Kirinyaga County
  • Muranga County
  • Nyandarua County
  • Nyeri County
  • Kiambu County

The former Central Province comprises the following counties:

  • Nairobi County
  • Kiambu County
  • Muranga County
  • Nyandarua County
  • Nyeri County

The former Rift Valley Province comprises the following counties:

  • Baringo County
  • Bomet County
  • Elgeyo-Marakwet County
  • Kajiado County
  • Kericho County
  • Laikipia County
  • Nakuru County
  • Nandi County
  • Narok County
  • Samburu County
  • Trans Nzoia County
  • Uasin Gishu County
  • West Pokot County

The former Western Province comprises the following counties:

  • Bungoma County
  • Kakamega County
  • Vihiga County

The former Nyanza Province comprises the following counties:

  • Homa Bay County
  • Kisii County
  • Kisumu County
  • Migori County
  • Nyamira County
  • Siaya County

These are the 47 counties in Kenya, each with its unique characteristics and opportunities. Understanding what are the 47 counties in Kenya is essential for anyone interested in doing business, investing, or simply learning more about this beautiful country.

In the next section, we’ll provide a comprehensive table outlining the 47 counties in Kenya, including their population, area, and capital cities.

Breaking Down the 47 Counties in Kenya

In our previous section, we established the significance of counties in Kenya’s governance structure. Now, let’s dive deeper into the specifics: what are the 47 counties in Kenya, and what do they entail?


County Number County Name Capital City Region
1 Mombasa Mombasa Coast
2 Kwale Kwale Coast
3 Kilifi Kilifi Coast
4 Tana River Hola Coast
5 Lamu Lamu Coast
6 Taita-Taveta Voi Coast

Key Insights and Next Steps

The table above provides a comprehensive overview of the 47 counties in Kenya, including their respective capital cities and regional affiliations. This breakdown is crucial for understanding the country’s administrative structure and the roles played by each county in promoting regional development.

From a business perspective, recognizing the unique characteristics of each county can help entrepreneurs and investors identify opportunities for growth and expansion. By understanding the regional nuances, you can tailor your business strategies to cater to the specific needs of each county, ultimately contributing to Kenya’s economic prosperity.

Ready to unlock the full potential of Kenya’s counties? Visit kopacash.com to learn more about the business opportunities and resources available in each county. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments and insights on doing business in Kenya.

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