23/09/2025
MARSABIT LEADS, EMBU LAGS: KENYA’S COUNTY ECONOMIES REVEAL A STARK DIVIDE
Counties are experiencing contrasting fortunes, with some emerging as economic powerhouses while others lag far behind, according to the latest KNBS Gross County Product (GCP) 2024 report.
Marsabit County posted the fastest economic growth rate between 2019 and 2023, clocking an impressive 9.3%. It was followed by Tana River (7.6%), Nakuru (6.9%), and Kajiado (6.3%), while Nairobi and Isiolo tied at 6.1%. Other counties in the top 10 included Lamu (5.9%), Samburu (5.7%), Turkana (5.4%), and Uasin Gishu (5.3%).
On the flip side, Embu was ranked the slowest-growing county, recording a mere 0.9% growth. It trailed Elgeyo Marakwet (1.2%), Nyamira (1.9%), Bungoma (2.1%), Kisii (2.8%), Garissa (3.0%), and Nyandarua (3.1%). Migori, Vihiga, and Bomet all posted 3.2% growth, rounding up the bottom 10.
The report paints a picture of resilience in arid and semi-arid counties such as Marsabit, Isiolo ,Tana River, and Samburu, which have managed to outpace traditional economic hubs.
Meanwhile, agricultural strongholds like Embu and Nyamira have struggled, raising questions about structural shifts in Kenya’s economy.
Do you agree with the report?