Isiolo County

The brief

About Isiolo County

Isiolo County is located in north-central Kenya, bordering Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River, Meru, Laikipia, Samburu and Kitui counties. Isiolo Town is the county headquarters and an important gateway to northern Kenya. The county is characterized by semi-arid plains, acacia woodlands, seasonal rivers and wildlife conservation areas including Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves. Its diverse population includes the Borana, Somali, Turkana, Samburu and Meru communities. Livestock production is the leading economic activity, complemented by tourism, trade, transport and irrigated agriculture along the Ewaso Nyiro River. Isiolo is also a key node in the LAPSSET Corridor, enhancing its strategic importance. Historically it has served as a meeting point for pastoralists and traders connecting northern Kenya with the rest of the country.

Population

268,002

Male (50%)

134,857

Female (46%)

123,476

Area

25,349 km²

Sub-counties

3

Capital

Isiolo