How government works
How county government works
The 47 counties, your governor, your MCA, and the services closest to you.
Updated: 2026-09
47 counties
The Constitution divides Kenya into 47 counties. Each county has its own government, close to the people it serves. (Article 6)
Two parts of a county
- County Executive — the Governor, the Deputy Governor and the County Executive Committee. They run county services.
- County Assembly — Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), elected from wards, led by a Speaker. They make county laws and approve the county budget.
What counties are responsible for
Local health facilities, local roads, street lighting, markets, water and sanitation, agriculture, and early childhood education — the functions listed in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution. (Article 186)
Your voice counts
County assemblies must allow the public to take part before making important decisions. If a decision affects your area, you have a right to be heard. (Article 196)
Why it matters
Most of the services you use every day are county services. Knowing your Governor and your MCA is the fastest way to get local problems solved.
This is general information, not legal advice.