Reviews: Atlas of Kenya

Summary

This review assesses the Atlas of Kenya, published in 1959 by the Survey of Kenya. The atlas comprises 45 maps, including 40 fully colored plates, covering Kenya's geography, principal towns, political and administrative divisions, distribution of economic assets, and pests and diseases, supplemented by notes on place-name spelling and pronunciation, five black-and-white historical maps, and a gazetteer. Provincial maps are at 1:1M scale, while most national maps are at 1:3M, with excellent color registration though some strong color juxtapositions may be visually harsh. Thematic maps include drainage, geology, soils, tribal and ethnographic data, communications, police organization, and exploration, with the exploration map notably featuring 28 early explorers, offering both historical insight and tribute. Overall, the atlas represents a significant cartographic achievement, comprehensive and meticulously edited.