The distribution of the working female population in Kenya highlights critical socio-economic dynamics, including gender disparities in labour force participation, unequal access to employment opportunities, and regional development imbalances.
These patterns are shaped by various factors, such as education levels, cultural norms, household responsibilities, and broader economic structures.
The table below presents the estimated proportion of the female population engaged in economic activities across various counties for the most recent reference year.
It offers valuable insights for policymakers, gender advocates, and development planners by identifying regions with low female workforce participation—areas that may benefit from targeted employment programmes and inclusive policy interventions. Such data is essential for promoting equitable economic growth and achieving gender parity in employment.
| County | Female Population |
|---|---|
| Nairobi | 976,073 |
| Kiambu | 611,026 |
| Nakuru | 452,410 |
| Meru | 416,355 |
| Kakamega | 370,464 |
| Machakos | 267,463 |
| Murang’a | 308,630 |
| Kisii | 325,006 |
| Bungoma | 264,866 |
| Kajiado | 251,024 |
| Kilifi | 243,933 |
| Kisumu | 254,167 |
| Mombasa | 232,098 |
| Migori | 248,366 |
| Makueni | 250,885 |
| Uasin Gishu | 212,689 |
| Nyeri | 240,104 |
| Homa Bay | 238,397 |
| Narok | 200,839 |
| Siaya | 217,996 |
| Nandi | 199,008 |
| Busia | 205,694 |
| Bomet | 195,789 |
| Kitui | 190,838 |
| Kericho | 182,406 |
| Kirinyaga | 193,400 |
| Embu | 164,617 |
| Nyandarua | 177,726 |
| Baringo | 131,241 |
| Kwale | 128,160 |
| Nyamira | 138,988 |
| Vihiga | 127,048 |
| Trans Nzoia | 104,038 |
| Laikipia | 131,443 |
| Tharaka-Nithi | 114,207 |
| West Pokot | 105,011 |
| Elgeyo Marakwet | 102,320 |
| Turkana | 88,663 |
| Taita Taveta | 64,036 |
| Garissa | 45,797 |
| Wajir | 29,874 |
| Mandera | 21,952 |
| Marsabit | 26,720 |
| Tana River | 16,508 |
| Isiolo | 15,487 |
| Lamu | 17,827 |
| Samburu | 14,151 |
Source: Kenya National Bureau of Statistics
– By Edwin Edgar Mutugi
