Chuka

Chuka is a town in eastern Kenya, located in Tharaka-Nithi County. It serves as a regional administrative and commercial hub for the surrounding countryside, with markets, shops, and services that support local residents and nearby settlements. The local economy is largely agricultural, with farming activities that include maize, beans, vegetables, and other crops, complemented by trade and small-scale services. The town sits in the central Kenyan highland area, contributing to a climate suitable for various agricultural activities and rural livelihoods.

Chuka is connected to other parts of Kenya by regional road networks, linking it with larger towns such as Meru and Isiolo. These connections facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services, and support regional commerce and access to education and healthcare.

Education and institutions in the area include Chuka University, a public university named after the town. The university offers programs across multiple disciplines and serves students from Tharaka-Nithi and neighboring counties, contributing to higher education access in the region. In addition to the university, the town and district host various primary and secondary schools, religious centers, and healthcare facilities that support the local population.

Administratively, Chuka is part of Tharaka-Nithi County, a unit formed during Kenya’s county reforms, with Kathwana serving as the county headquarters. The name Chuka may also refer to the broader area around the town and to communities associated with the region. See also: Chuka University; Tharaka-Nithi County; Meru-speaking communities.