Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura issuing a press statement to the media
By: Cynthia Masibo
As the year 2024 draws to a close, the Government of Kenya has outlined its achievements and future ambitions in a press briefing led by Government Spokesperson, Isaac Mwaura, . Dr. Mwaura detailed the administration’s successes under the ambitious BETA Plan, which aims to foster economic transformation across agriculture, housing, healthcare, MSMEs, and the digital economy.
Agriculture, the backbone of Kenya’s economy, received significant focus. Subsidies on fertilizer saw prices drop by 67%, boosting crop yields and ensuring food security. For instance, maize production reached 95 million bags, while staple food costs fell, with the price of maize flour reducing by 52% to Kshs. 100 per packet. The tea sector, contributing 4% to GDP, saw a record Kshs. 180 billion in export earnings, while reforms in sugar and dairy production increased self-sufficiency and farmer incomes. “Kenya’s farmers are thriving, with stories like that of Mary Chebet from Trans Nzoia County highlighting the transformative impact of these initiatives,” Dr. Mwaura stated.
The Affordable Housing Program also made notable strides, with 124,000 units at various stages of development and 4,888 units already available for purchase through the Boma Yangu platform. This initiative has created 200,000 jobs to date, with projections of one million more over the next four years. Beneficiaries, such as John Otieno, a mason from Kisumu, have used the program to improve their livelihoods.
In healthcare, the Taifa Care initiative under the Social Health Authority (SHA) has enrolled 16.5 million Kenyans, granting them access to affordable healthcare services, including critical care. Community Health Promoters have reached 7.8 million households, screening millions for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, and referring thousands for specialized care.
MSMEs and the digital economy also witnessed substantial growth. Kenya retained its position as Africa’s leading startup hub, attracting $800 million in funding in 2023. Initiatives like the Hustler Fund disbursed Kshs. 60 billion, enabling small entrepreneurs like Nakuru’s James Mwangi to expand their businesses. The government also operationalized 274 digital hubs, offering free internet access to underserved communities and training 690,000 youth in digital skills.
Education reforms under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) saw the completion of 3,500 new classrooms, while 56,000 teachers were recruited to support the Grade 9 transition. The government also hired an additional 85,000 teachers to improve teacher-student ratios, investing over Kshs. 40 billion in the education sector.
As 2025 approaches, the government remains committed to fostering innovation, enhancing inclusivity, and addressing global challenges. “We urge all Kenyans to remain optimistic and actively participate in shaping our nation’s future,” Dr. Mwaura emphasized.
This progress reflects Kenya’s resilience and determination to build a better future for all, with plans to further advance agriculture, healthcare, housing, and education, ensuring no Kenyan is left behind.