Siaya County

Introduction and a Brief History

Siaya County has three major geomorphologic areas namely: Dissected Uplands, Moderate Lowlands and Yala Swamp. These have different relief, soils and land use patterns. The altitudeof the County rises from 1,140m on the shores of Lake Victoria to 1,400m above sea level on the North. There are few hills found in the County namely; Mbaga, Odiado, Akala, Regea,Nyambare, Usenge, Ramogi hills, Rambugu, Abiero, Sirafuongo and Naya hills. River Nzoia and Yala traverse the County and enter Lake Victoria through the Yala Swamp.The physical features have a bearing on the overall development potential of the County. The high altitude areas that form the Ugenya and Ugunja sub-counties have higher rainfall hence suitable for agriculture and livestock keeping. Rivers Nzoia, Yala and Lake Kanyaboli have agreat potential for irrigation. The low altitude areas of Boro, Uranga, Uyoma and Wagai receive less rainfall and thus are suitable for cotton growing and drought resistant crop varieties.The geology of the area is composed of the old Nyanzian system forming exposed rocks in Siaya, Ugenya, Ugunja and Gem Sub-counties. These rocks include basalts, desites and rylites,that consist of coarse and fine aggregates used in the construction industry. The main soil type is ferrasols and its fertility ranges from moderate to low with most soils being unable to producewithout the use of either organic, inorganic or in most cases both types of fertilizers. Most of theareas have underlying murram with poor moisture retention. Bondo sub-County has various soil types ranging from black-cotton, sandy loams to laterite including red volcanic soils. West Sakwa, South Nyang’oma and Usigu locations have ferrasols,while North Sakwa, East and Central Yimbo have luvisols with low moderate fertility. The soil types in Rarieda ranges from black cotton soil in Madiany Division and sandy loams and red volcanic soils in Rarieda Division. The expansive Yala Swamp around Ramogi Hill has potential for large scale- irrigation using river Yala. Bondo Sub-County also has several islands including Mageta, Sirigombe, Magari and Yalombo.

Rural pace meets urban amenities

Enjoy the convenience of living and doing business in a large centre while enjoying small town character and community spirit!
Surrounded by beautiful lake scapes to the east and endless country to the west, the Town has an ambiance of nature and outdoors, and the undying charm of Lake Victoria.

Safe, secure and friendly

Siaya town is a great place to live, a stunning place to visit and a smart place to do business. It’s no mystery why Siaya’s population has grown over 14%, why new businesses are opening their doors, and why visitors return. Realize for yourself the Town of Siaya and its great opportunities!

Location

Nestled in the beautiful shores of Lake Victoria, the Town of Siaya is conveniently situated in close proximity to several major centers in the County of Kisumu, Homabay & Migori. The town is one hours drive from an international airport (Kisumu International Airport).

1. Boat Trips on Lake Victoria

Setting out in a boat or canoe early in the morning is the best way to experience the lake and contrary to other places, there are no entry fees. The bird species exceeds 100 and also, there are Giant Otters and monitor Lizards along the lakeshore – remember to bring a pair of binoculars and your camera.

At Kisumu Beach Resort and Kiboko Bay Resort, you can hire a motorized boat and they also facilitate fishing trips and a visit to Ndere Island National Park. The other, depending on your negotiating skills, and also the cheaper option is to book a canoe trip via local fishermen/villagers in Kisumu, Dunga, Hippo Point, or other areas along the beaches though you should know that they are small boats.

At dawn, the lake is usually calm, but in the afternoon, the wind picks up making it impossible to sail. It is not worth taking the risk. In fact, many people have drowned because of sailing when the lake is rough. Also, ensure that your guide has brought safety vest before your venture into the lake. It is also a good idea to carry a hat and sunscreen because you will be exposed to the sun throughout (no shade in the boats).

2. Fishing Expedition and Kayaking

Lake Victoria is the ideal destination for both novice and experienced kayakers and anglers. Perhaps you would fancy a weekend or holiday camping on the Beach of Mfangano Island and spend your time sport-fishing for Nile Perch?

Or wish to accompany the fishermen for the superb sight of night-fishing off the beautiful Rusinga Island – moving up and down under the moonlight among thousands of paraffin lamps on an inky and black lake while the fishermen pull in their nets of Omena Fish attracted to Lake Victoria’s flies. You can also enjoy Kayaking, if that’s your thing.