African Names in Kenya Sub Counties

The naming of Sub Counties in Kenya leaves many wondering whether it was done by the local people or not. Most counties have relegated some of the well-known African names in Kenya that are rich in African heritage. The naming of the sub counties follows a mundane system that is based on compass directions. For example, most sub counties carry the name of the parent county followed by either of the following words; north, south, east, central or west.

Did Africans not have names for the various directions of the compass which can substitute the English names? The use of English names in naming sub counties is a sign of a deeply entrenched inferiority complex courtesy of Kenya’s education system.

No one can say they are proud of their African heritage when sub counties are being given English names. Very soon, wards will be subdivided and then they will have a north or south suffix after the name of the parent ward.

The use of compass directions in naming sub counties is mundane and shows a general lack of creativity and an erosion of the African heritage.

Only a few counties have their sub counties having 100% African names. These counties include Machakos County and Vihiga County.