In picture,The Government Spokesperson, Isaac Mwaura addressing journalists at KICC Nairobi.
By Aoma Keziah,
As 2024 draws to a close, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has taken the opportunity to reflect on Kenya’s journey, celebrating the nation’s resilience, economic transformation, and the ongoing commitment to uplifting every Kenyan.
In his statement , Mwaura emphasized that the year’s end serves as a moment not only for reflection but also for acknowledging the progress Kenya has made, despite challenges.
“This moment is not just about looking back, but understanding how far we have come — marked by challenges, resilience, and the unwavering determination to shape a country where no Kenyan is left behind,” Mwaura said.
Central to his remarks was the government’s economic transformation agenda, particularly the BETA Plan, which aims to drive Kenya’s development through five key pillars: Agriculture, Affordable Housing, Universal Healthcare, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and the Digital Superhighway & Creative Economy.
“The BETA Plan is not just a roadmap towards a better Kenya, but also a promise to uplift the millions of hustlers at the base of the economic pyramid,” Mwaura stated.
He further emphasized that the plan is designed to empower small enterprises and create sustainable opportunities for Kenyans, with a focus on dignity, hope, and prosperity for every household.
The government Spokesperson highlighted that the plan’s foundation lies in the resilience and ingenuity of the Kenyan people, urging all citizens to actively participate in building a future where every sector thrives.
“It calls on us to not only survive adversity but to thrive in the face of it. It challenges us to take ownership of our future and actively build a Kenya that works for all.” He added.
He said that the government, has made significant strides in stabilizing the economy, bolstering investor confidence and ensuring macroeconomic stability.
“Through sound monetary policies, we have successfully stabilized the Kenya shilling, bolstered by strategic foresight and resilience. Despite global economic challenges, Kenya has honored its international financial commitments, including the timely repayment of the Eurobond, reinforcing its credibility in global financial markets.” He explained.
Mwaura also pointed to the success in Kenya’s tourism sector, with the implementation of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) contributing to a sharp increase in tourist arrivals from 1.48 million to 2.5 million.
On Agriculture, he said that it remains at the core of Kenya’s economic agenda. He highlighted the government’s subsidies and support for the agricultural sector, noting a 67% reduction in fertilizer costs, which has led to increased production across the country.
“Farmers have greatly benefited from the fertilizer subsidy program, which has reduced the cost of fertilizer from Ksh 7,500 to Ksh 2,500 per 50kg bag, resulting in a bumper harvest of key staples.”Mwaura said.
Additionally, he said that this initiative has increased national food security, with Kenya now producing 95 million bags of maize, 10 million bags of wheat, and 2 million bags of rice, which significantly strengthens the nation’s food stockpile.
“The cost of unga has also decreased by 52%, making staple foods more affordable for Kenyans. A good the success stories of farmers like Mary Chebet from Trans Nzoia County, who has doubled her maize production and improved her family’s livelihood.” Mwaura added.
He celebrated key achievements in specific agricultural sectors, including tea, dairy, and sugarcane. Kenya continues to be one of the largest producers and exporters of tea, with export earnings increasing by Ksh 42 billion to Ksh 180 billion, thanks to ongoing reforms. The revival of the sugarcane sector has also seen Kenya achieve self-sufficiency in sugar production, reducing reliance on imports and supporting local farmers. The dairy industry has also seen significant improvements, with farmers earning a 33% higher guaranteed minimum return on milk, now selling at Ksh 50 per liter, a marked increase from the previous Ksh 33.
On The government’s Affordable Housing Program, he noted that a flagship initiative under the BETA Plan, has made significant strides, with over 124,000 housing units currently under development, reporting that nearly 5,000 units have already been put up for sale through the Boma Yangu platform, and more than 550,000 Kenyans have registered for home ownership.
“This program has already generated 200,000 direct jobs, with projections to create 1 million jobs in the next four years. The ripple effects are evident, with artisans undergoing training and certification, improving their employability and contributing to the country’s growing skilled labor force.” He explained.
He highlighted personal stories of transformation, such as John Otieno, a young mason from Kisumu, who secured employment through the program and has used his earnings to support his family and start a small business.
“These initiatives are not just about building homes; they are about transforming lives,” Mwaura remarked.
As Kenya looks to the future, his statement underscored the government’s continued commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient economy.
“We are at a pivotal moment in our journey, and as we continue to navigate challenges, we remain focused on uplifting all Kenyans and ensuring that no one is left behind.” Mwaura affirmed
The statement from the governmentSpokesperson serves as a reminder of the progress made in 2024 and the ambitious plans for 2025 and beyond, as the government works towards creating a Kenya that is more prosperous, sustainable, and equitable for all its citizens.
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