From The Rio Times · Amina Diarra · · 2m
Religion in Kenya: 85.5% Christian, 11% Muslim
Kenya's religious landscape: 85.5% Christian, 11% Muslim with election tensions.
In brief
Kenya's religious landscape: 85.5% Christian, 11% Muslim with election tensions. Kenya has 85.5% Christians and 11% Muslims as of 2019, with churches and mosques influencing elections and travel safety. Originally reported by The Rio Times.
Religious Demographics
Kenya has 85.5 percent Christians and 11 percent Muslims as of 2019 government estimate.
Christian Breakdown
Non-evangelical Protestants: 33 percent, Catholics: 21 percent, Evangelical churches: 32 percent.
Muslim Distribution
Most Muslims live in north-east and coastal regions, with ethnic Somalis and Swahilis forming majority.
Religious Leaders
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba chairs Catholic bishops, Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit leads Anglicans, Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado chairs SUPKEM.
Election Timeline
General election falls on Tuesday 10 August 2027, with churches and mosques already speaking on political violence.
US Travel Advisory
US travel advisory for Kenya stands at Level 2, exercise increased caution as of 28 July 2026.
Catholic Services
Catholic Health Department supplies 25 percent of Kenya's health care through 451 health units.
Anglican Church
Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit has led Anglican Church since 2016, with 37 dioceses.
Muslim Organizations
SUPKEM launched Ummatic Policy Liaison Directorate to link Muslim community with government ministries.
Shakahola Mass Graves
Mass graves found near Malindi, with 429 bodies linked to Paul Mackenzie's alleged starvation campaign.
Religious Law
Constitution states no state religion, with Kadhis' courts handling Muslim family law.
Election Violence
All Saints' Cathedral stormed twice in July 2026, with suspects linked to political sponsor.
State House Church Dispute
President Ruto proposed church at State House, with Catholic and Muslim leaders opposing.
Religious Holidays
Kenya declared Idd-ul-Fitr on 20 March 2026 and Eid ul-Adha on 27 May 2026.
Hajj Pilgrimage
Kenya Hajj Mission registered 14 agents for 2027 Hajj pilgrims, with Saudi authorities ending Class D tents.
Religious Registration
New religious groups must register with Registrar of Societies, requiring theology diplomas and tax compliance.
The headline
Kenya has 85.5% Christians and 11% Muslims as of 2019, with churches and mosques influencing elections and travel safety.
