Kenya’s counties represent the heart of its devolved governance system, established by the Constitution of Kenya in 2010. Each of the country’s 47 counties is led by a governor, who holds significant executive powers under the new laws. The creation of counties replaced the previous provincial system, allowing for a more localized approach to governance, promoting development and fostering community engagement.
This article provides an updated list of all 47 counties, their current governors, and the political parties they are affiliated with. Whether you are interested in understanding the political landscape of Kenya or need specific details about the county leadership, this comprehensive guide is designed to keep you informed.
List of 47 Counties in Kenya and Their Governors
Below is the full list of counties in Kenya, along with the names of their current governors and the political parties they belong to:
| Code | County Name | Governor | Party |
|---|---|---|---|
| 001 | Mombasa | Abdulswamad Nassir | ODM |
| 002 | Kwale | Fatuma Achani | UDA |
| 003 | Kilifi | Gideon Mung’aro | ODM |
| 004 | Tana River | Dhadho Godhana | ODM |
| 005 | Lamu | Issa Abdallah Timamy | ANC |
| 006 | Taita Taveta | Andrew Mwadime | Independent |
| 007 | Garissa | Nathif Jama | ODM |
| 008 | Wajir | Ahmed Abdullahi | ODM |
| 009 | Mandera | Mohamed Adan Khalif | UDM |
| 010 | Marsabit | Mohamud Ali | ODM |
| 011 | Isiolo | Abdi Hassan Guyo | Jubilee Party |
| 012 | Meru | Isaac Mutuma | Independent |
| 013 | Tharaka Nithi | Muthomi Njuki | UDA |
| 014 | Embu | Cecily Mbarire | UDA |
| 015 | Kitui | Julius Malombe | Wiper Party |
| 016 | Machakos | Wavinya Ndeti | Wiper Party |
| 017 | Makueni | Mutula Kilonzo | Wiper Party |
| 018 | Nyandarua | Moses Badilisha Kiarie | UDA |
| 019 | Nyeri | Mutahi Kahiga | UDA |
| 020 | Kirinyaga | Anne Waiguru | UDA |
| 021 | Murang’a | Irungu Kang’ata | UDA |
| 022 | Kiambu | Kimani Wamatangi | UDA |
| 023 | Turkana | Jeremiah Lomurkai | ODM |
| 024 | West Pokot | Simon Kachapin | UDA |
| 025 | Samburu | Jonathan Lati Leleliit | UDA |
| 026 | Trans-Nzoia | George Natembeya | DAP-K |
| 027 | Uasin Gishu | Jonathan Bii | UDA |
| 028 | Elgeyo-Marakwet | Wisley Rotich | UDA |
| 029 | Nandi | Stephen Sang | UDA |
| 030 | Baringo | Benjamin Cheboi | UDA |
| 031 | Laikipia | Joshua Irungu | UDA |
| 032 | Nakuru | Susan Kihika | UDA |
| 033 | Narok | Patrick Ole Ntutu | UDA |
| 034 | Kajiado | Joseph Ole Lenku | ODM |
| 035 | Kericho | Dr. Erick Kipkoech Mutai | UDA |
| 036 | Bomet | Hillary Barchok | UDA |
| 037 | Kakamega | Fernandes Barasa | ODM |
| 038 | Vihiga | Wilber Ottichilo | ODM |
| 039 | Bungoma | Ken Lusaka | Ford Kenya |
| 040 | Busia | Paul Otuoma | ODM |
| 041 | Siaya | James Orengo | ODM |
| 042 | Kisumu | Anyang’ Nyong’o | ODM |
| 043 | Homa Bay | Gladys Wanga | ODM |
| 044 | Migori | Ochillo Ayacko | ODM |
| 045 | Kisii | Simba Arati | ODM |
| 046 | Nyamira | Amos Nyaribo | UPA |
| 047 | Nairobi | Johnson Sakaja | UDA |
Gender Representation in Kenya’s Governors
In the 2022 General Elections, Kenya saw a significant increase in the number of female governors, with seven women elected to this prestigious position. These women are:
- Susan Kihika of Nakuru
- Fatuma Achani of Kwale
- Kawira Mwangaza of Meru
- Cecily Mbarire of Embu
- Wavinya Ndeti of Machakos
- Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay
- Anne Waiguru of Kirinyaga
This notable increase in female leadership represents a significant step toward gender equality in Kenyan politics, reflecting a growing commitment to female empowerment at the local government level.
Conclusion
Kenya’s counties play a pivotal role in the country’s governance, with each county’s governor overseeing local development and the implementation of national policies. The introduction of women governors in Kenya is a promising step forward in terms of gender inclusivity and the empowerment of women in leadership roles. With the country’s devolved system, governors are tasked with ensuring that each county thrives economically, socially, and politically. By following the leadership of these 47 governors, Kenya continues to pave the way for a balanced and progressive future.







