Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Nairobi, Kenya

Like many places around the world there has been a flow of people moving out of the larger cities in East Africa. Nairobi is no acceptation. Those people with jobs who can work online from home, have moved outside Nairobi, as have those people who lost their jobs in the city and find it difficult to pay the higher living costs without an income to support them. While this is the current trend, Nairobi remains a dynamic city with lots to offer.

Nairobi’s History

Founded in 1899, the city’s name comes from the Maasai and means “Cool Water.” This was taken from the Nairobi River that runs down from the Abedaire mountains through the city. It was originally a rail depot on the Ugandan railroad, but grew so quickly that within 8 years it had surpassed Machakos as the capital. In 1963 when Kenya became a republic, Nairobi was named the official capital city. Today Nairobi boasts a population of 4.39 million (2019 census).

What Makes Nairobi Unique

While Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya, it is also the “spoke” city of East Africa. Nairobi houses all of the Embassies and consulates as well as the UN headquarters for the continent.

There are more than a hundred international companies based in the city as well as 65 listed Kenyan companies on the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE). All commerce comes through the city whether it is by rail, road or air. In addition the city has the largest international airport.

When it comes to top restaurants, Nairobi has a myriad of international delicacies to choose from. From Japanese sushi, to American hamburgers, Nairobi has it all.

Nairobi Climate Statistics

Average rainfall : 610mm per year

Cimate : temperate subtropical

Hottest month : January (16 - 27 degrees Celsius)

Coldest month : July (13 - 22 degrees Celsius)

What We Love About Nairobi

Nairobi is a dynamic city with a lot of commerce. There is a huge amount of tourism that comes through Nairobi bringing with them fresh eyes and energy. With the largest middle class population in the region, Nairobi is setting many trends for East Africa and making great strides in education, healthcare, tourism and general commerce. But most of all, its the people. For a large internationally recognised city, Nairobi boasts some of the most friendly city dwellers you will ever meet. People here are engaging and always willing to lend a hand.

Wrapping up

Moving anywhere is always a big deal, whether it is for work or for a change of pace. Nairobi is a great choice because it really is in the centre of a beautiful part of the world. Whether you are looking for amazing beaches, far away places in the bush, or an international crowd working on world issues, you will find it here in Nairobi “The Green City in the Sun.”