Kenya - Facts and Figures

Although the official language of Kenya is English, Swahili is the national language. It is based on African Bantu languages with a smattering of Arabic, Portuguese and English words thrown in.

Population

33,800,000 (2005)

30,800,000 (2001)

29,549,000 (1999)

Ethnic groups

Kikuyu (22%)

Luhya (14%)

Luo (13%)

Kalenjin (12%)

Kamba (11%)

Meru (6%)

Kisii (6%)

Other African (15%)

non-African (Asian, European and Arab) (1%)

Capital

Nairobi

Languages

English, Swahili, numerous indigenous languages

Religions

Protestant (45%)

Roman Catholic (33%)

Muslim (10%)

trad religions (10%)

Other (2%)

Infant mortality rate

75 per 1000

Life expectancy

48 years (2005)

52 years (1998)

Adults with HIV

1.2 million (2003)

Literacy

85% over 15 can read and write (2003)