Exploring Murang’a Sub-Counties: Population and County Assembly Wards

Murang’a County, located in central Kenya, is an agriculturally rich region known for tea, coffee, and avocado farming. The county is subdivided into several sub-counties, each with its own unique population distribution and governance structure. Below is a breakdown of the key sub-counties in Murang'a, including their populations and County Assembly wards.

1. Kangema Sub-County

Kangema is one of the smaller sub-counties in Murang’a but plays a significant role in the county's administrative and economic activities.

• Population: Approximately 100,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Kanyenyaini
  • Muguru
  • Rwathia
  • Iyego

Kangema is known for its involvement in tea farming, contributing substantially to the local economy.

2. Murang’a East Sub-County (Formerly Kiharu)

Murang’a East, formerly part of Kiharu, is an important sub-county that includes Murang’a town, the county’s headquarters, and serves as a political and economic center.

• Population: Approximately 120,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Gaturi
  • Township
  • Mbiri
  • Wangu
  • Mugoiri

Murang’a East is a key urban center with active commercial hubs, including Murang’a town.

3. Kahuro Sub-County

Kahuro is a distinct sub-county that was previously part of the larger Kiharu area. It is now an administrative and economic unit with a rural setup.

• Population: Approximately 80,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Murarandia
  • Kahuro
  • Mugoiri
  • Wangu

Kahuro’s economy is largely agricultural, with small-scale farming activities thriving in the region.

4. Mathioya Sub-County

Mathioya Sub-County is situated in the highlands of Murang’a County, with stunning landscapes that support tea and coffee farming.

• Population: Approximately 95,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Kiru
  • Kamacharia
  • Gitugi

Despite its small size, Mathioya is a crucial player in the tea farming sector, which is a backbone of the region’s economy.

5. Kandara Sub-County

Kandara is one of the larger sub-counties in Murang’a, known for its fertile soils that support agricultural activities, especially horticulture and coffee farming.

• Population: Approximately 150,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Ithiru
  • Gaichanjiru
  • Ng’araria
  • Muruka
  • Ruchu

Kandara is also famous for its active dairy farming and vibrant market centers.

6. Gatanga Sub-County

Gatanga Sub-County is known for its large landmass and contributions to the tea and horticulture sectors. It is the largest sub-county in Murang’a in terms of geographical area.

• Population: Approximately 165,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Kariara
  • Gatanga
  • Kihumbu-ini
  • Mugumo-ini

Gatanga is home to major tea plantations, and its lush green hills make it a beautiful destination for nature enthusiasts.

7. Maragua Sub-County

Maragua is known for its role in horticulture and livestock farming, supporting both rural and urban populations.

• Population: Approximately 180,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Kambiti
  • Kimorori/Wempa
  • Makuyu
  • Maragua Ridge
  • Nginda

Maragua’s proximity to major transport corridors makes it an important region for trade and agriculture.

8. Kigumo Sub-County

Kigumo is another tea-rich sub-county in Murang’a, known for its cool climate and vast tea farms.

• Population: Approximately 120,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Kigumo
  • Muthithi
  • Kinyona
  • Kangari

Kigumo’s contribution to the local and national tea industry is noteworthy, making it a significant agricultural area in the county.

9. Murang’a South (Makuyu) Sub-County

Murang’a South, also known as Makuyu Sub-County, is predominantly an agricultural zone, with a focus on large-scale horticulture.

• Population: Approximately 140,000 people
• County Assembly Wards:
  • Kamahuha
  • Makuyu
  • Nginda
  • Ichagaki

This region benefits from its fertile soils and strategic location near key transport routes, allowing it to thrive in agriculture.

Conclusion

Murang’a County's sub-counties are not only rich in agricultural resources but also play crucial roles in the governance of the region. The County Assembly wards within each sub-county ensure representation and development at the grassroots level, driving Murang’a’s economic and social growth.

Whether you are interested in exploring Murang’a’s tea farms, engaging with its vibrant local communities, or understanding its political landscape, each sub-county offers unique insights into the heart of central Kenya.