Continuing from our previous post, Kenya, situated in the heart of East Africa, stands tall as one of the rapidly expanding economies in the third world.
As we delve further, let’s explore some captivating facts about this dynamic country that never ceases to amaze us.
More Kenya Facts Continuation
Land
Kenya is as large as France and neighbours Tanzania in the South, Uganda in the West and Ethiopia in the North. About 65 per cent of the land is arable, with 15 per cent presently under cultivation.
The country’s eastern edge touches the Indian Ocean and is home to most of Kenya’s tourism and historical sites. Kenya is famous for being home to Lake Turkana, the cradle of humanity. This region is believed to be the origin of humanity after several archaeologists discovered skulls that date back millions of years.
Climate
Kenya has two seasons: the dry season prevails from January to March and September, while the wet season runs from April to August and again from October to December. The country enjoys much sunshine throughout the year, and temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Topography
Kenya has an elevated central plateau that varies in height—the southern parts neighbouring Tanzania shares Mt. Kilimanjaro – the highest mountain in Africa. The western parts share Mt. Elgon with Uganda, and the central parts of the country host Mt. Kenya.
There are several hills around Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, called the Aberdares. The most famous river is RTana, which has tributaries from the Eastern and central parts of the country. Several inland lakes like Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Elementaita and Lake Magadi exist. The western parts enjoy the famous Lake Victoria, the River Nile’s origin.
Several inland lakes like Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Elementaita and Lake Magadi exist. The western parts enjoy the famous Lake Victoria, the River Nile’s origin.
Transport
The country is covered with several asphalt and tarmac roads and further feeder roads of gravel and dry weather roads. The railway links the country to Uganda from Mombasa. Kenya Airways has an extensive international and domestic flight network.
We Now boast of The Thika Road Super Highway and the Standard Gauge Railway, the first railway line built in Kenya since independence. You can now Book it online and travel between Nairobi and Mombasa, a distance of more than 500 km, in 4 hours.
Local airports include Eldoret, Kisumu, and Mombasa, Wilson airport provides various domestic flights to other areas in the country.
Language
Kenya is a multi-ethnic state with over 40 languages. The national language is Swahili, and English is the official language. The main local languages are Kikuyu, Luo, Kalenjin, and Kamba.
Tourism
Excursions within Kenya can be organized for a day or a month. Some of the most visited sites include the Maasai Mara for the wildebeest migration view, Lake Nakuru for the flamingos, Lake Victoria for fish and water sports and the golden sandy beaches in Mombasa.
Some hotels cater for all pockets, from the posh Hilton to cheap shelters at the coast. It would be best if you had a visa to travel to Kenya except for nationals of East Africa. The currency used is the Kenya Shillings, where a dollar can be exchanged for 103.9 Kenyan Shillings.
World-class health facilities like the AgaKhan Hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital, and Nairobi Hospital cater for international foreigners.
Culture
The people of Kenya are generally very friendly. Although they live in cosmopolitan cities, they still love traditional foods like Pilau (Swahili rice), muthukui (mashed maize), ugali, fish, and roast meat.
Click this link to learn more about Kenya, its people, culture, geography, economy, and politricks :-).
