Nestled in southwestern Kenya, Kisii Town, also referred to as Getembe or Bosongo, thrives as a bustling urban center and the capital of Kisii County. Positioned within the scenic Gusii Highlands, this municipality pulsates with vitality as a prominent commercial hub. Let’s delve deeper into the allure of Kisii Town:
Geographical Insights:
- Coordinates: Located at approximately 0.683°S latitude and 34.767°E longitude.
- Altitude: Situated at an elevation of 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level.
- Area: Encompassing approximately 70 square kilometers (30 square miles).
Historical Background:
- Initially named Getembe by the Gusii people, the town later adopted the moniker Bosongo, derived from “Abasongo,” referencing British settlers during colonial rule.
- Founded by British soldiers retreating from Lake Victoria during the early 20th century Great War.
Demographic Composition:
- Primarily inhabited by the Gusii community, also known as the Kisii.
- Minorities include Nubians, Arabs, Luo, Luhya, Kuria, Kikuyu, Kamba, Somali, Asian, and Kalenjin.
- As of 2019, the population reached 13,422, with a density of 4,011 individuals per square kilometer.
Tourism Highlights:
- Strategically situated within the western Kenya tourist circuit.
- Key attractions comprise Tabaka Soapstone Carvings, the renowned Maasai Mara wildlife reserve, Ruma National Park, and the picturesque Lake Victoria Basin.
Economic Influence:
- Acts as an economic powerhouse in the South Nyanza and South Rift regions.
- Experienced a surge in population post the 2007–08 post-election violence, evolving into a melting pot of diverse communities.
In essence, Kisii Town emerges as a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and commerce, nestled amidst verdant landscapes and fertile agricultural terrains.