Kenya gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1963. In 2010, Kenyans voted to adopt a new constitution that introduced additional checks and balances to executive power and devolved power and resources to 47 newly created counties.
Geography
Area
total : 580,367 sq km land: 569,140 sq km water: 11,227 sq km
Climate
varies from tropical along coast to arid in interior
English (official), Kiswahili (official), numerous indigenous languages
Religions
Christian 85.5% (Protestant 33.4%, Catholic 20.6%, Evangelical 20.4%, African Instituted Churches 7%, other Christian 4.1%), Muslim 10.9%, other 1.8%, none 1.6%, don't know/no answer 0.2% (2019 est.)
Population growth rate
2.06% (2024 est.)
Government
Government type
presidential republic
Capital
name: Nairobi
Executive branch
chief of state: President William RUTO (since 13 September 2022) head of government: President William RUTO (since 13 September 2022)
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador David Kipkorir Kiplagat KERICH (since 18 September 2024)
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Susan M. BURNS (since 25 August 2025)
Economy
Economic overview
fast growing, third largest Sub-Saharan economy; strong agriculture sector with emerging services and tourism industries; IMF program to address current account and debt service challenges; business-friendly policies foster infrastructure investment, digital innovation and public-private partnerships; vulnerable to climate change-induced droughts
