28 interesting facts about Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a vibrant metropolis known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic urban life. Established as a railway depot in 1899 by the British East Africa Protectorate, Nairobi quickly grew into one of Africa’s largest and most influential cities. Today, it serves as a major hub for commerce, culture, and diplomacy, not just for Kenya but for the entire East African region. With its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Nairobi offers a fascinating study in contrasts. Here are 28 interesting and informative facts about Nairobi that showcase its significance and charm.

1. Nairobi is known as the “Green City in the Sun,” thanks to its lush landscapes and favorable climate.
2. It was founded in 1899 and quickly evolved from a basic camp for railway workers to the capital of British East Africa by 1907.
3. Nairobi is the largest city in Kenya and serves as the country’s economic, political, and cultural center.
4. The city is situated at an altitude of 1,795 meters (5,889 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.
5. Nairobi National Park, located just 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the city center, is the only national park in the world that borders a capital city.
6. The name “Nairobi” comes from the Maasai phrase “Enkare Nyrobi,” which means “cool water,” referring to the Nairobi River which flows through the city.
7. Nairobi is a major hub for international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON).
8. The city’s population has grown rapidly, from 350,000 in 1963 to over 4 million residents today.
9. Nairobi is home to the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), one of the largest stock exchanges in Africa.
10. The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), with its iconic cylindrical tower, is a landmark and key venue for events in Nairobi.
11. The city has a diverse cultural scene, including numerous museums like the Nairobi National Museum and the Karen Blixen Museum.
12. Nairobi was the setting for the book and movie “Out of Africa,” which tells the story of Karen Blixen’s life in Kenya.
13. The city’s public transport is dominated by matatus, colorful minibuses that are a common sight on Nairobi’s roads.
14. The Giraffe Centre, located just outside Nairobi, is a conservation and education center focused on the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.
15. Nairobi has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, craft markets, and theaters showcasing both traditional and contemporary African art.
16. The city experiences a moderate climate with two rainy seasons and an average temperature of 19°C (66°F).
17. Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is East Africa’s busiest airport, serving over 7 million passengers annually.
18. The city’s higher education institutions include the University of Nairobi, Kenya’s oldest and largest university.
19. Nairobi’s informal settlements, such as Kibera, are among the largest in Africa, highlighting the city’s economic disparities.
20. The iHub, an innovation hub and co-working space, has been instrumental in Nairobi’s emergence as a leading technology center in Africa.
21. Nairobi hosts the annual Nairobi International Book Fair, one of the largest literary events in Africa.
22. The city is a starting point for safari tours to other parts of Kenya, such as the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park.
23. Nairobi’s Muthaiga Country Club was a popular social venue for British expatriates during colonial times.
24. The Nairobi Arboretum is a botanical garden near the city center that hosts over 300 species of trees and is a popular recreational spot.
25. The Westgate shopping mall attack in September 2013 was a tragic event in Nairobi’s recent history, drawing international attention.
26. Nairobi is a multicultural city, with a large expatriate community and diverse ethnic groups from all over Kenya and beyond.
27. The city’s Karura Forest is an urban forest reserve offering walking trails, waterfalls, and picnic sites.
28. Nairobi was awarded the UN Habitat Scroll of Honour in 2014 for its progressive approach to urban environmental management.

Nairobi’s evolution from a modest railway outpost to a bustling metropolis is a testament to its resilience and dynamic spirit. Its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern development make it a key player on the African continent and a fascinating destination for visitors from around the globe. As Nairobi continues to grow and face new challenges, its story remains a compelling example of urban transformation and cultural diversity.

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a vibrant metropolis known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic urban life. Established as a railway depot in 1899 by the British East Africa Protectorate, Nairobi quickly grew into one of Africa’s largest and most influential cities. Today, it serves…