Garissa County

The brief

About Garissa County

Garissa County is situated in northeastern Kenya, bordering Wajir, Isiolo, Tana River, Lamu, Kitui and Somalia. Garissa Town is the county headquarters and principal commercial centre. The county is largely semi-arid, with the Tana River supporting irrigation, settlements and agriculture. The population is predominantly Somali, with several clans maintaining a rich pastoral heritage. Livestock production remains the backbone of the economy through cattle, camels, goats and sheep, while irrigated farming produces maize, fruits and vegetables. Trade, transport and public services continue to expand. Somali culture is expressed through poetry, oral traditions, music and Islamic heritage. Historically, Garissa has served as a strategic administrative and trading centre linking Kenya with the Horn of Africa.

Population

841,353

Male (63%)

530,392

Female (52%)

433,903

Area

44,753 km²

Sub-counties

7

Capital

Garissa