Nairobi

Nairobi is the capital and largest city of Kenya, located in south-central Kenya along the Nairobi River. It serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. The name’s origin is contested but commonly linked to a Maasai term meaning “cool water.” Founded in 1899 as a rail depot for the Uganda Railway, it grew rapidly and became the capital at independence in 1963.

Geography and climate: Nairobi sits at about 1,795 meters above sea level, giving it a temperate highland climate with generally mild temperatures. Average daytime highs are in the mid-20s Celsius, with cooler nights. The city experiences two rainy seasons, long rains from March to May and short rains from October to December, which influence agriculture and water management in the region.

Economy and transport: Nairobi is a major financial hub in East Africa, hosting national ministries, corporate offices, and the Nairobi Securities Exchange. Key sectors include finance, information technology, manufacturing, and logistics. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the main international gateway. The city is connected by a railway line to Mombasa and by a network of roads, including ongoing expressway projects; traffic congestion and housing affordability are common urban challenges.

Culture, education, and governance: Notable landmarks include the Nairobi National Museum, Kenyatta International Conference Centre, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Giraffe Centre, and Karura Forest. Major higher education institutions include the University of Nairobi, Strathmore University, and Kenyatta University. Nairobi is the seat of the national government and a county government under Kenya’s 2010 constitution, with devolution of many services to the local level.