Geography of Kenya

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== Geography of Kenya ==

Kenya is located in East Africa and lies on the equator. It is bordered by Ethiopia to the north, Somalia to the east, Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, and South Sudan to the northwest, with the Indian Ocean lying to the southeast. The country covers an area of approximately 580,367 square kilometers.

Topography[edit | edit source]

Kenya's topography is diverse, ranging from low-lying coastal plains to the central highlands, which are bisected by the Great Rift Valley. The coastal region is characterized by sandy beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove swamps. Moving inland, the terrain rises to the central highlands, which are home to some of the country's most fertile agricultural lands.

The Great Rift Valley runs from the north to the south of the country and is a significant geographical feature. It includes several lakes, such as Lake Turkana, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha. The valley is also home to the Menengai Crater and the Mount Longonot volcano.

Mountains[edit | edit source]

Kenya is home to several notable mountains, including Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa, standing at 5,199 meters. Other significant mountains include Mount Elgon on the border with Uganda and the Aberdare Range.

Climate[edit | edit source]

Kenya's climate varies from tropical along the coast to arid in the interior regions. The coastal region experiences a hot and humid climate, while the highlands have a more temperate climate with cooler temperatures. The arid and semi-arid regions in the north and northeast experience high temperatures and low rainfall.

Rivers and Lakes[edit | edit source]

Kenya has several important rivers, including the Tana River, which is the longest river in the country, and the Athi-Galana-Sabaki River. The country also has numerous lakes, many of which are located in the Great Rift Valley. These include Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, which Kenya shares with Uganda and Tanzania.

Natural Resources[edit | edit source]

Kenya is rich in natural resources, including minerals, wildlife, and fertile agricultural land. The country's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for safari tourism.

Environmental Issues[edit | edit source]

Kenya faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, desertification, and pollution. Efforts are being made to address these issues through conservation programs and sustainable development initiatives.