The Ultimate Guide to Kenya’s 47 Counties: Codes, Capitals, and Hidden Gems

Kenya is a land of incredible diversity, not just in its landscapes but in its people, culture, and governance. Since the implementation of the 2010 Constitution, the country has been divided into 47 unique counties, each serving as a hub for local development and cultural heritage.

Whether you are a traveler looking for your next adventure, a student studying for exams, or a citizen interested in devolution, understanding these 47 units is essential. That is why we created the Kenya Counties Explorer—to make this information accessible to everyone at the click of a button.

Why the 47 Counties Matter

Devolution was a turning point for Kenya. It shifted power from a central government in Nairobi to 47 local governments, ensuring that resources reach the “grassroots” level. From the coastal breeze of Mombasa (County 001) to the bustling streets of Nairobi (County 047), each county has its own governor, unique challenges, and distinct opportunities.

Fast Facts About Kenyan Counties

As you use our Kenya Counties Explorer, you’ll discover fascinating details that make our country special:

• The Largest vs. Smallest: While Marsabit County (010) is the largest by landmass—covering vast stretches of the beautiful northern desert—Mombasa County (001) is the smallest, yet it remains one of the most economically vital due to the Port of Mombasa.

• The “Cradle of Mankind”: Much of the archaeological evidence that man originated on earth comes from the Great Rift Valley, specifically within Turkana County (023) and Marsabit.

• Agricultural Giants: Counties like Kiambu (022), Kericho (035), and Uasin Gishu (027) are the backbone of our economy, producing the tea, coffee, and maize that feed the nation and the world.

Spotlight: 5 Must-Know Kenyan Counties

To truly appreciate the diversity of our nation, let’s take a closer look at five counties that represent the different faces of Kenya:

1. Mombasa County (001) – The Gateway

Mombasa is not just a coastal paradise; it is the oldest city in Kenya and its most important port. While it is the smallest county in terms of land size, its economic impact is massive. Visitors love the historical Fort Jesus and the white sands of Nyali Beach, but for the locals, it is the heartbeat of trade for the entire East African region.

2. Nyeri County (019) – The Highland Heritage

Nestled between the peaks of Mt. Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, Nyeri is a central hub for agriculture and history. It is famous for producing some of the world’s best coffee and tea. It also holds a special place in global history as the burial site of Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting movement.

3. Turkana County (023) – The Cradle of Mankind

If you want to see the origins of humanity, you look to Turkana. Known for the jade-colored waters of Lake Turkana, this county is home to some of the world’s most important fossil discoveries. Today, it is also a land of opportunity with the discovery of oil and massive underground water aquifers that could change the future of the region.

4. Uasin Gishu County (027) – The City of Champions

The capital, Eldoret, is known worldwide as the “Home of Champions” because it is the training ground for Kenya’s legendary long-distance runners. Economically, this county is a powerhouse of large-scale farming, providing the maize and wheat that ensure food security for millions of Kenyans.

5. Nairobi County (047) – The Green City in the Sun

Nairobi is unique in the world—it is the only capital city with a full National Park within its borders. As the center of government, finance, and technology, it is the most populous county and the primary driver of our modern economy. Whether you are there for business or to see lions against a backdrop of skyscrapers, Nairobi is unlike anywhere else on earth.

How to Use the Kenya Counties Explorer

We built this tool to be your “digital atlas.” Instead of scrolling through long PDFs or confusing websites, you can visit the Kenya Counties Explorer App to find:

1. County Codes: Essential for filling out official forms or tracking government data.

2. Capitals and Major Towns: Know exactly where the heart of each county beats.

3. Local Highlights: Discover the major economic activities and tourist attractions for each region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya’s Counties

1. How many counties are in Kenya?

There are exactly 47 counties in Kenya, established under the 2010 Constitution to bring government services closer to the people. You can see the full list of codes and names on our Kenya Counties Explorer page.

2. Which is County 001 and County 047?

The counties are numbered based on their historical geographical order. Mombasa is County 001, and Nairobi is County 047.

3. What is the largest county in Kenya?

Marsabit County is the largest by land area, covering approximately 70,961 square kilometers. It is followed closely by Turkana County.

4. Can I find county headquarters using your tool?

Yes! Our Kenya Counties Explorer provides the capital town for each county, which is where the main government offices and the Governor’s office are located.

Knowledge is Power

Understanding our counties is the first step toward being an informed Kenyan citizen. When we know how our local governments are structured and what makes each region unique, we can better participate in the growth of our nation.

Explore the full list here: https://tujulishane.com/kenya-counties/