Tala, Matungulu Constituency: A Comprehensive Profile of Eastern Kenya's Growing Region.

Tala, a vibrant town in Matungulu Constituency, represents one of the rapidly developing areas in Machakos County, Kenya. This report explores the geographical, demographic, economic, and infrastructural aspects of this region, with particular attention to real estate trends and recent development initiatives.

Locations > Machakos > Matungulu Constituency > Tala

No properties found in this location.

Geographical and Administrative Context.

Tala is strategically positioned approximately 56 kilometers east of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. The town sits at an elevation of 1,544 meters (5,068 feet) above sea level and is often considered in conjunction with nearby Kangundo due to their proximity. Administratively, Tala functions as a location within Matungulu division and represents one of the five wards that constitute Matungulu Constituency.

Matungulu Constituency itself is one of eight constituencies within Machakos County, established by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The constituency is further divided into five County Assembly Wards:

Tala Ward: Encompasses Sengani, Kyaume, and Katine Sub-Locations, covering 34.10 km² with a population of approximately 26,297 (according to the 2009 census)
Matungulu North Ward: Includes Uamani, Kiboko, Kayata, Kyanzavi, and Kwakumbu Sub-Locations, spanning 168.40 km² with around 25,041 residents
Matungulu East Ward: Comprises Katheka, Matheini, Kingoti, Kambusu, and Mwatati Sub-Locations, covering 40 km² with approximately 21,725 inhabitants
Matungulu West Ward: Includes Komarock, Kithuani, Nguluni, Kwangii, Kithimani, Kalandini, Matuu, Mukengesya, and Mbuni Sub-Locations, spanning 246.90 km² with around 33,935 residents.
Kyeleni Ward: Encompasses Kyeleni, Kwosau, Kwale, Nzambani, and Kituluni Sub-Locations, covering 87 km² with approximately 17,738 inhabitants

Demographics and Cultural Landscape.

The combined population of Kangundo-Tala was recorded as 218,557 in the 2009 census, making it the 9th largest urban area in Kenya by population size. The area is predominantly inhabited by the Kamba people, with Kikamba being the main language spoken, though residents typically understand both Swahili and English.

Economic Activities.

The economy of Tala and the broader Matungulu area is primarily agrarian, with many residents engaged in subsistence farming on relatively small plots of land. The region is characterized by high population density and diverse agricultural activities.

Agricultural Production.

Farmers in the area cultivate various crops suited to the tropical climate, including:

Food crops: maize, beans, sorghum, millet, sweet potatoes, onions, and bananas
Vegetables: cowpea leaves (a local delicacy)
Fruits: pawpaws (papayas) and bananas

Cash crops: coffee, though farmers report challenges with low prices leading to neglect of this crop.

Market Activities.

Downtown Tala hosts vibrant open-air markets, with Tuesdays and Fridays designated as the main market days. These markets serve as important economic hubs where:

Farmers sell their agricultural produce
Livestock trading forms a significant enterprise
Local commerce thrives through various small businesses

Real Estate Market.

The real estate market in Tala and Matungulu presents diverse opportunities for both residential and agricultural investments, with prices varying based on location, proximity to main roads, and land use potential.

Plots for Sale in Tala, Matungulu: Land Prices.

Land prices in Matungulu range considerably depending on size, location, and development potential:

Plot Prices (Typically 50×100 feet or 1/8 acre):

Entry-level plots start from approximately KSh 300,000
Mid-range plots in areas like Koma Hills range from KSh 550,000 to KSh 800,000
Plots near tarmac roads or with ready title deeds command premium prices of KSh 799,000 to KSh 1,100,000
Prime plots in desirable locations such as Kantafu near Kangundo road can reach KSh 1,300,000

Land for Sale in Tala, Matungulu: Acreage Prices:

Agricultural land starts from approximately KSh 2,400,000 per acre in areas like Koma Hills
Prime land suitable for subdivision ranges from KSh 2,900,000 to KSh 3,900,000 per acre
Land touching main roads or with high commercial potential can command KSh 6,500,000 per acre or more
Large tracts of land (100+ acres) in Taala Matungulu are priced around KSh 3,500,000 per acre

Cheap House for Sale in Tala, Matungulu: Housing Prices.

The residential property market offers options across different price points:

A 1-bedroom apartment (68 sqm) with modern amenities in Matungulu is priced at approximately KSh 5,000,000
A 3-bedroom bungalow in Nguluni, Tala, approximately 1.5km from the main area, is available for around KSh 2,500,000

Accommodation Options.

The area hosts several accommodation establishments catering to visitors and tourists:

Savannah Lodge Nguluni
Ol Donyo Sabuk Resort
Poshie Hotel
The Hotel Eagles Tala
Wonderland Resort
Zaburi Retreat
Kileefarm Cottages

Recent Infrastructure Development.

Matungulu Constituency has witnessed significant infrastructure development initiatives in recent years, aimed at enhancing public services and economic activities.

Sports Facilities.

Matungulu Stadium is in its final stages of completion, with the aim of nurturing local sporting talents

Administrative Infrastructure.

A tender for the “Proposed Phased Construction of Matungulu Sub-County Offices-Phase 1” was issued in April 2024, indicating ongoing government investment in administrative infrastructure

Security Infrastructure.

The National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) has constructed modern police infrastructure, including a police station to enhance security in Tala, including Tala Market and its environs.

County-Wide Development.

The Machakos County Annual Development Plan for 2025-2026 emphasizes:

Modernization and expansion of vital infrastructure
Improvements in energy infrastructure
Enhanced water and sanitation facilities
Upgraded transportation networks

These infrastructure developments are expected to boost economic activity and raise the standard of living for locals, according to county planning documents.

Governance and Leadership.

Matungulu Constituency has been represented in parliament by Hon. Stephen Mutinda Mule, who was first elected in March 2013. After his initial election was nullified, he was re-elected in a by-election on October 17, 2013, garnering 11,867 votes (43.83% of the total vote cast).

The constituency benefits from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), which was established to ensure equitable development at the constituency level. This fund is managed by:

The Fund Account Manager (a staff member of the NG-CDF Board)
The NG-CDF Committee
Project Management Committees for specific projects, elected by the community

Investment Potential.

Machakos County, including Matungulu Constituency, is positioning itself as an investment powerhouse and manufacturing hub in Lower Eastern Kenya. County leadership has emphasized:

Strategic location advantages
Development of robust infrastructure
Implementation of investor-friendly policies
Commitment to expanding industrial space
Focus on creating an enabling environment for business growth

Conclusion

Tala in Matungulu Constituency presents a dynamic profile of a developing area with significant potential. While primarily agricultural in its economic base, the region is experiencing infrastructural growth and increased real estate activity. The varied land and property prices reflect different levels of development and proximity to amenities, with notable recent investments in public facilities such as administrative offices, security infrastructure, and sports facilities.

As Machakos County continues its developmental trajectory as highlighted in its planning documents, Tala and the broader Matungulu Constituency are likely to see further improvements in infrastructure, increased investment opportunities, and potential growth in property values. For residents, investors, and policymakers alike, understanding these trends provides valuable insight into the region’s development pathway.

1. What are the current house prices in Matungulu North?

2. How much does land cost per acre in Matungulu East?

3. What recent infrastructure developments have taken place in Matungulu West?

4. Are there any upcoming real estate projects in Kyeleni?

5. How does the cost of living in Tala compare to other areas in Lower Kaewa/ Kaani?