Kitui County

The brief

About Kitui County

Kitui County is situated in Kenya's eastern region, bordering Machakos, Makueni, Tana River, Garissa, Isiolo, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi and Taita-Taveta counties. Kitui Town serves as the county headquarters. The county consists mainly of semi-arid plains, seasonal rivers and dry woodlands. The population is predominantly Kamba with a rich cultural heritage expressed through music, crafts and storytelling. Agriculture and livestock keeping form the backbone of the economy, producing maize, millet, sorghum, green grams, pigeon peas, cotton and fruits while goat and cattle rearing are widespread. Mining of limestone, coal and gemstones also contributes to economic potential. Historically Kitui has been an important trading centre and has produced notable leaders in Kenya's political, educational and cultural development.

Population

1,136,187

Male (53%)

604,636

Female (57%)

646,909

Area

30,430 km²

Sub-counties

18

Capital

Kitui