Sub-Counties in Murang’a County, Kenya

Murang’a County lies in central Kenya, within the fertile highlands between Nairobi and Mount Kenya. It is one of the most vibrant counties in the country, with rich culture, fertile soils, and strong economic activity. To manage development and local governance effectively, the county is divided into several administrative regions. These regions are known as sub-counties.

In this article, we will explore all the sub-counties in Murang’a County. Each has unique features, resources, and opportunities that shape the county’s identity.

Why Sub-Counties Matter in Murang’a

Sub-counties in Murang’a play an important role in service delivery and governance. They make administration closer to the people. They also help plan resources, education, health, and infrastructure more effectively.

By understanding the sub-counties, residents, investors, and visitors can see the potential across the county. Each sub-county tells a story of culture, agriculture, and development.

List of Sub-Counties in Murang’a County

Murang’a County has seven sub-counties. They are:

• Gatanga Sub-County

• Kandara Sub-County

• Kangema Sub-County

• Kigumo Sub-County

• Kiharu Sub-County

• Maragwa Sub-County

• Mathioya Sub-County

Let’s look at each one in detail.

Source: Tuko News

GATANGA SUB-COUNTY

Gatanga lies on the southern edge of Murang’a County. It borders Kiambu County, making it an important gateway to Nairobi. The sub-county is famous for Ndakaini Dam, which supplies water to the capital city. Agriculture thrives here, with tea, coffee, pineapples, and dairy farming.

The people of Gatanga also value culture and music. Many well-known Kenyan musicians come from this area. With its proximity to Nairobi, Gatanga continues to attract investors in real estate, agribusiness, and tourism.

KANDARA SUB-COUNTY

Kandara is known for its large-scale farming and fruit production. Mangoes, avocados, and horticultural crops do well here. The area has a warm climate, which supports agribusiness throughout the year.

The sub-county has also seen growth in education and small industries. Its central location makes it a hub for trade between Murang’a and neighboring regions. Kandara’s farmers play a major role in feeding markets in Nairobi and beyond.

KANGEMA SUB-COUNTY

Kangema lies in the highlands of Murang’a County. It enjoys a cool climate, making it suitable for tea and coffee farming. The sub-county is surrounded by scenic hills and rivers, giving it great potential for eco-tourism.

Kangema is also known for its history. It is the birthplace of several national leaders. The people are hardworking, and most families depend on farming. Roads, schools, and health services continue to improve, making life better for residents.

KIGUMO SUB-COUNTY

Kigumo sits at the heart of Murang’a County. It combines both highland and midland zones, which makes its agriculture diverse. Tea, coffee, and horticulture are common, while dairy farming also contributes to the economy.

Kigumo is home to busy trading centers that link farmers with markets. The sub-county has invested in schools and health facilities, supporting community growth. With its central position, it connects easily with other regions in the county.

KIHARU SUB-COUNTY

Kiharu is home to Murang’a town, the county headquarters. This makes it an important administrative and commercial hub. Banks, offices, and learning institutions are concentrated here.

Farming still plays a big role, especially coffee and dairy farming. However, real estate, education, and small industries have grown quickly. Kiharu combines rural life with urban growth, offering opportunities in both farming and business.

MARAGWA SUB-COUNTY

Maragwa lies in the lower parts of Murang’a County. It has a warmer climate, which supports crops like sugarcane, mangoes, and vegetables. Irrigation projects help boost farming even during dry seasons.

The sub-county also has a growing industrial presence. Small factories and processing plants add value to farm produce. With its location along the busy Thika–Murang’a road, Maragwa attracts traders and investors.

MATHIOYA SUB-COUNTY

Mathioya is one of the most scenic areas in Murang’a County. It lies in the upper highlands, where rivers and waterfalls shape the landscape. The area is famous for tea plantations, trout fishing, and nature trails.

Tourism is a growing sector here, with visitors exploring forests, rivers, and cultural sites. Farming, however, remains the backbone of the local economy. With its natural beauty, Mathioya has the potential to become a leading eco-tourism destination in Kenya.

Conclusion

The sub-counties in Murang’a County each carry unique strengths. From the fertile highlands of Kangema and Mathioya to the bustling town of Kiharu, the diversity is clear. Gatanga links Murang’a to Nairobi, while Kandara and Maragwa drive agribusiness and trade. Kigumo connects communities in the heart of the county.

Together, these sub-counties build the identity of Murang’a. They show resilience, opportunity, and growth. For residents, investors, and visitors, Murang’a County is more than just fertile land. It is a region of promise, powered by its people and its sub-counties.