Mbeere

Mbeere is a region in eastern Kenya that forms part of Embu County. It is inhabited by the Mbeere people, a Bantu-speaking community closely related to the Embu and other neighboring groups.

Historically, the area was organized as Mbeere District in the former Eastern Province. Following Kenya’s 2010 constitutional reforms, it was incorporated into Embu County and is divided into sub-counties commonly referred to as Mbeere North and Mbeere South, with Siakago and Kiambere among the towns serving as administrative centers.

Geographically, Mbeere lies along the eastern slopes of the Kenyan highlands and extends toward the floodplain of the Tana River. The region experiences a climate range from highland temperate to semi-arid in the lower areas, influencing agricultural practices and settlement patterns.

Economy and infrastructure in Mbeere are predominantly based on smallholder agriculture. Common crops include maize, beans, and sorghum, alongside livestock rearing. Irrigation schemes along the Tana River support horticulture and other crops in suitable locales. The Kiambere Hydroelectric Power Station on the Tana River is a notable piece of regional infrastructure that contributes to national electricity supply.

Culture and language are central to the Mbeere identity. The Mbeere language, a dialect cluster related to Embu, is spoken alongside Kiswahili and English. The community shares many customs and traditional practices with neighboring Embu and Kikuyu groups, including dances and rites.

Education and development efforts in the area include numerous primary and secondary schools and basic health facilities, with ongoing programs aimed at improving water, roads, and educational resources.

See also: Embu County, Mbeere people, Kiambere.