President William Ruto has initiated a nationwide dialogue on Kenya's long-term development by unveiling the Vision 2060 blueprint, set to succeed Vision 2030. During a national address on July 30, the President announced that public consultations would commence on August 12, urging citizens to actively participate in shaping the country's future over the next three decades.

Vision 2060: Pillars and Purpose

The proposed Vision 2060 framework is anchored on three core pillars: political freedom, economic growth, and social justice. It aims to build on the foundation laid by Vision 2030, which is nearing its conclusion but has yet to fully realize many of its flagship targets.

President Ruto emphasized the need to learn from past successes and shortcomings, stating that Kenya must collectively strive to achieve its development goals this time around.

Reviewing Vision 2030 Achievements

Launched in 2008, Vision 2030 sought to transform Kenya into a newly industrializing, upper-middle-income country by 2030. The blueprint focused on economic, social, and political pillars, supported by infrastructure, innovation, macroeconomic stability, and governance reforms.

Economic Growth Challenges

The economic pillar targeted a sustained 10% annual GDP growth through expansion in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and IT. However, Kenya has consistently fallen short of this target. The economy grew by 4.6% in 2025 and 5.3% in early 2026, according to Central Bank data, well below the envisioned rate.

President Ruto noted that Kenya once had a higher GDP per capita than China in 1980 but has since been surpassed significantly, with China’s GDP per capita now exceeding US$14,000 compared to Kenya’s much lower figure.

Social and Political Progress

  • Digital Connectivity: The landing of the TEAMS and SEACOM fibre-optic cables in 2009 expanded internet access, fostering Kenya’s reputation as a leading digital economy in Africa.
  • Constitutional Reform: The 2010 constitution introduced devolution, strengthened institutions, and expanded citizens’ rights, reshaping governance.
  • Infrastructure Development: Projects like the Thika Superhighway, Nairobi Expressway, and Standard Gauge Railway have improved transport and regional trade connectivity.
  • Devolution Implementation: Since 2013, devolved county governments have brought services closer to citizens, enhancing local governance.
  • Public Services Digitisation: The eCitizen portal launched in 2014 streamlined access to government services, improving efficiency and accessibility.
  • Healthcare and Education: Initiatives like the Managed Equipment Service and digital learning programmes have modernized public health and education sectors.
  • Security and Transport: Investments in security equipment and expansion of transport infrastructure have strengthened national security and logistics networks.

Looking Ahead: Vision 2060

President Ruto highlighted that despite some Vision 2030 goals remaining unmet, Kenya now enjoys restored macroeconomic stability, increased foreign exchange reserves, and rising investor confidence, including a record US$3.2 billion in foreign direct investment in 2025.

He called on Kenyans to engage in the Vision 2060 consultations, noting the establishment of the National Infrastructure Fund and the Sovereign Wealth Fund to ensure sustainable investment and equitable wealth distribution.

The new blueprint aims to accelerate inclusive and sustainable development by building on the achievements and addressing the gaps of Vision 2030. The President urged the nation to unite beyond politics and electoral cycles to realize a shared developmental destiny.