Nakuru County Political Profile Toward 2027: Gilgil Constituency

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.

Demographics and Basic Data

Population: ~185,209 (2019 census)

Area: 1,075.4 km²

Urban/Rural Split: Predominantly rural with mixed farming communities, several tourist attractions and natural scenery and emerging urban centres 

Main Economic Activities: Mixed farming, tourism, military services, and small-scale trade

Electoral Wards and Current MCAs (2022–2027)

MP Election Summary (2013–2022)

2013 General Election

Registered Voters: 59,204

Winner: Samuel Ndiritu Mathenge (TNA) — 35,887 votes

Key Opponent: Wanderi Gabriel Muhuthia (DPK) — 8,789 votes

Mathenge became the first MP of the newly created constituency.

2017 General Election

Registered Voters: 85,340

Winner: Martha Wangari Wanjira (Jubilee Party) — 51,943 votes

Key Opponent: Paul Gitahi Mwaura (MCCP) — 15,262 votes

A strong victory that aligned with Jubilee’s national dominance.

2022 General Election

Registered Voters: 95,654

Winner: Martha Wangari Wanjira (UDA) — 35,363 votes

Key Opponent: Samuel Ndiritu Mathenge (Jubilee) — 19,764 votes

Wangari successfully defended her seat under the new UDA banner, winning by a margin of 15,599 votes.

Political Dynamics Toward 2027

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.

Key Issues for 2027 Voters:

• Land ownership disputes in settlement schemes
• Agricultural productivity and market access for farmers
• Tourism development and conservation around Lake Elementaita and Soysambu Conservancy
• Infrastructure in rural wards and support for military-linked communities
• Youth empowerment and education (home to over 120 public schools)

Martha Wangari’s strength lies in her experience and ability to navigate national coalitions. However, the drop in her vote numbers from 2017 to 2022 indicates voters are demanding more visible development on the ground.

Economic & Social Significance

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

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

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.

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