Nyanza

Nyanza is a geographical term that refers to a region in East Africa. The term is derived from the Bantu word "Enyanza" which means "large water" or "lake". The region is named after Lake Victoria, which is known as "Nyanza" in several Bantu languages.

Geography

The Nyanza region is located in the western part of Kenya, bordering Uganda to the west and Tanzania to the south. The region is divided into six counties: Homa Bay County, Kisii County, Kisumu County, Migori County, Nyamira County, and Siaya County. The region's capital and largest city is Kisumu, which is the third largest city in Kenya.

History

The Nyanza region has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era. The region was home to several Bantu-speaking communities, including the Luo, Kisii, and Kuria. During the colonial period, the region was part of the East Africa Protectorate, which was later known as the Colony of Kenya.

Culture

The Nyanza region is known for its rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and customs. The Luo, for example, are known for their vibrant music and dance, as well as their traditional homesteads known as Dhola. The Kisii, on the other hand, are renowned for their soapstone carvings.

Economy

The economy of the Nyanza region is primarily based on agriculture, with the main crops being tea, coffee, sugarcane, and maize. The region is also known for its fishing industry, with Lake Victoria providing a significant source of fish. In addition, the region has a growing service sector, with tourism and retail trade being major contributors.

See also

• Lake Victoria
• Luo people
• Kisii people