Geography of Kenya

Physical Features

Located across the equator on the east of the African continent, the geography of Kenya is quite diverse. Its bordering countries include Ethiopia to the north, Sudan to north-west, Somalia to east, Tanzania to south and Uganda to west. Kenya covers a total area of 582,650 sq km with land covering 569,250 sq km and water 13,400 sq km. The geography of Kenya is characterized by its coastline of 536 km, large plains and numerous hills. Central and Western Kenya is distinguished by the Great Rift Valley while Northern Kenya is plain and arid. The Kakamega Forest in western Kenya is a remnant of a rainforest in East Africa. The highest point in the country is Mount Kenya which rises to an altitude of 5,199 m. The land area of Kenya extends from the sea level (Indian Ocean) in the east, to 5,199 meters on top of Mount Kenya.

People and Places

According to the 2008 census, the population of Kenya has been estimated to be 36,913,721 and the country is the largest and most populated of the three main countries of East Africa (Tanzania and Uganda). Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya having the largest urban population. The country's African population is divided into three linguistic groups namely Bantu, Nilotic, and Cushitic.

The main cities of Kenya besides the capital are Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Machakos, Eldoret, Nyeri, Meru, Thika, Kitale, Kakamega, Kisii, Kericho, Malindo and Bungoma.

Natural Resources and Wildlife

The main natural resources found in Kenya are limestone, soda ash, salt, gemstones, diatomite, gypsum, fluorspar, zinc, wildlife, and hydropower.

The numerous national parks and reserves are major wildlife sanctuaries of Kenya, though there is plenty of wildlife outside these parks as well. There are several species of birds, mammals and reptile found in and outside the wildlife sanctuaries of Kenya. Antelopes, Zebras, and many carnivorous animals like the lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, hyena, cat, genet and jackal make up the wildlife found in Kenya. Elephants can be found cross a wide range of habitats from the hot coastlands to the cold moorlands of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya.

Climatic Conditions

The climatic conditions in Kenya range from tropical along the coast to arid in interiors. Kenyan climate is marked by plenty of sunshine throughout the year but its can get a bit cool during the nights and early mornings.

Rainfall in Kenya occurs from April to June and short rains from October to December. February and March are the hottest months in Kenya while July to August is the coldest.

This article provides an overview of the geography of Kenya. For more on Kenya, visit- 123independenceday.com