Home Arrow FAQs Arrow What is the second-largest county in Kenya?

What is the second-largest county in Kenya?

Marsabit County is the largest county in Kenya by land area, covering approximately 66,923 to 70,961 square kilometers depending on the source, covering an area of approximately 66,923 square kilometers. It lies in northern Kenya, bordering Ethiopia to the north, Turkana to the west, Samburu to the south-west, and Wajir to the east as its boundaries. Marsabit, with its vast, arid landscapes and varied cultural background, is one of the most outstanding and diverse areas in the country.

Location and Geography

Marsabit's landscape offers a big variety of contrasts — the dry and shimmering Chalbi Desert and the moist highlands of the Marsabit Plateau. The county also has volcanic craters, beautiful crater lakes such as Lake Paradise, and mountain ranges that support rich wildlife and are crisscrossed by seasonal streams. Even though the county is mostly dry, there are small areas of green highlands that catch and store water for use by both people and animals.

Population and Communities

According to the 2019 Kenya National Census, Marsabit County has a population of around 459,785 people. The county has a wide range of different ethnic and pastoral communities, among which are the Borana, Gabra, Rendille, Samburu, and Turkana. These communities have been living together for a long time. They maintain traditional pastoral lifestyles while preserving cultural practices that define northern Kenya’s identity

Economy and Key Features

The mainstay of Marsabit's economic activities is the livestock sector. Camels, goats, and cattle are the major ones since they do well in the semi-arid areas. Tourism is a new industry that is developing, with people coming to see Marsabit National Park, the Chalbi Desert, and the county’s cultural diversity. The highland forests are another important factor, as they are the major ecological zones that help to maintain biodiversity and support local human activities.

The county's high position at the border with Ethiopia also contributes to its being a fast-growing cross-border trade hub, which connects the northward corridor of Kenya to the market of its neighbors.

Marsabit’s Strategic and Cultural Importance

Marsabit, the second-largest county in Kenya, is home to vast potential and challenges that are still persisting from infrastructure development and water scarcity to peacekeeping amid the diverse communities. The county that comprises hills and valleys, nature, and different peoples is a significant player in the future development vision of the country, more so under the northern growth-promoting initiatives.

Summary

Marsabit County, which occupies an area of 66,923 km², is the answer to the query, "Which county in Kenya is the second largest?" This unpopulated area with scenic volcanoes is home to strong, resilient communities. and is one of the very few places in Kenya's north where one can see the mixture of wilderness, culture, and survival in such a beautiful manner; hence, it is called the northern frontier of Kenya.

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