The rapid growth of secondary cities in Kenya is explored through an analysis of various factors related to development. Through a shift-share analysis of employment figures it is shown that, while employment expansion and diversification has occurred in some of the secondary cities, this does not fully explain the population growth which has taken place. Road improvements facilitated rural out-migration while perceived employment opportunities encouraged in-migration to smaller urban centers. While these factors do not fully correspond to the growth which has taken place, it is suggested that they do reveal certain growth patterns which are occurring. Finally, it is suggested that the growth of Kenyan secondary cities is a positive step towards a more equitable and efficient spatial distribution of the population and that, through their development, secondary cities can play an important role in diminishing rural-urban differences and unifying Kenya's space economy. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.)