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 400 B.C.: Kenya was part of a major trade route between the Red Sea and East Africa. 8th century: Persian and Arab trade posts are set up along the coast. Swahili develops as a language of trade during this period. 1498: Portuguese explorers reach Kenya. 1890: British establish control over the coastal area. 1895: British gain control over the entire country. 1957: In response to local unrest, Africans are allowed to be involved in the government. 1963: Kenya gains independence. |
KENYA The Republic of Kenya
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| Noun People from Kenya are called Kenyan(s). | |
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Location Kenya is located between Somalia and Tanzania. |
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Size slightly more than twice the size of Nevada |
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Coastline Kenya's eastern side borders the Indian Ocean. |
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Terrain Kenya has low plains that rise to central highlands. There is a fertile plateau in the west. |
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Land use 3% of Kenya is fertile and can be used to grow crops. 1% of the land is used for permanent crops. 7% is taken up by pastures and meadows. 4% of the land is made up of forests. 85% is left over for other uses. |
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Capital Nairobi, which is home to more than 1,000,000 people, is Kenya's capital (1969 estimate). |
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Independence On December 12, 1963 Kenya gained independence from Britain. |
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National holiday Jamhuri Day, December 12 (1963) |
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Languages English and Swahili are the official languages, but there are numerous indigenous languages as well. |
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Population Over 28 million (1996 est.) |
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Age 45% of all Kenyans are between 0-14 years of age. 53% of the population is between 15-64 years old. The remaining 2% are 65 years and over. |
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Life expectancy at birth Male Kenyans are expected to live to be 55. Female Kenyans are expected to live to be 55. |
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Total fertility rate Women have an average of 4 children each. |
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Ethnic divisions Kikuyu 22%, Luhya 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%, Asian, European, and Arab 1%, other 15%. |
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Religions Protestant (including Anglican) 38%, Roman Catholic 28%, indigenous beliefs 26%, other 8%. |
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Literacy 78% of all Kenyans are literate. 86% of males can read and write. 70% of females can read and write. |
