Gilgil embodies Kenya’s crossroads—where military might, fertile farms, and UNESCO‑recognized treasures converge. Its politics echo national shifts, yet its destiny rests on local voices demanding equity, infrastructure, and sustainable growth. As Nakuru’s strategic hub, Gilgil’s resilience and diversity will shape the Rift Valley’s future trajectory.

Gilgil Constituency Member or Parliament Hon. Wanjira Martha Wangari , PHOTO | COURTESY/: The Kenyan Parliament Website

Gilgil Constituency stands as one of the most diverse and strategically important constituencies in Nakuru County. Spanning vast rural farmlands, tourism hotspots, and military installations, it blends agricultural potential with conservation and administrative significance.

Gilgil Constituency was established in 2013 after being carved out from the larger Naivasha Constituency to better serve its growing population and unique needs. It covers parts of Gilgil and Naivasha sub-counties and functions as a bridge between urban Nakuru and the broader Rift Valley region.

The constituency is expansive, with significant military presence, tourism assets, and agricultural activity, making it a key player in Nakuru County’s politics and economy.

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Demographics and Administrative Units

Population: ~185,209 (2019 census)

Projected Population (2026): 226,000+

Area: 1,075.4 km²

Registered Voters (2022): 95,654 voters

Number of Wards: 5

Ward Leadership (2022)

Ward MCA  Party
Gilgil Rose Gathoni NjorogeUDA
Ebburu/MbarukMichael GathanwaUDA
ElementaitaGeorge Nene Safina
Murindat Peter NjorogeUDA
Malewa WestFrancis Mungai KuriaUDA

Political Leadership

2022 General Election

Martha Wangari Wanjira of UDA party defended her seat for another five-year term with 35,363 votes against Samuel Ndiritu Mathenge of Jubilee Party who garnered 19,764 votes. 

2017 General Election

Martha Wangari Wanjira won the seat with 51,943 votes against through the Jubilee Party ticket defeating the Paul Gitahi Mwaura of Maendeleo Chap Chap Party who became second with 15,262 votes.

2013 General Election

The TNA party candidate, Samuel Ndiritu Mathenge won the MP seat with 35,887 votes against his opponent of DPK party, Wanderi Gabriel Muhuthia who became the runner up with 8,789 votes. Mathenge became the first MP of the newly created constituency.

Economic ctivities and Development Priorities

Gilgil plays a vital role in Nakuru County’s economy through:

Tourism

Lake Elementaita (a UNESCO site), Soysambu Conservancy, and events like the World Rally Championship

Agriculture

Mixed farming that supports food security in the Rift Valley

Military

Hosts major army barracks, NYS training camp, and Anti-Stock Theft Unit headquarters

Education

Home to prestigious institutions such as Utumishi Boys and Girls Secondary Schools among others.

Its strategic location along major transport routes adds to its importance as a commercial and services hub.

Political Behaviour

Gilgil Constituency remains a constituency where national politics meets local realities. As 2027 approaches, the focus will be on whether Martha Wangari can secure a third term by delivering on agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure, or if fresh challengers can capitalise on voter demands for change.

Gilgil has consistently mirrored Kenya’s national political shifts from TNA in 2013, to Jubilee in 2017, and UDA in 2022. While the constituency follows broader coalition trends, local issues around land, agriculture, and tourism often influence voter sentiment.

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