President William Ruto has officially commenced the process of formulating Kenya’s Vision 2060, a long-term development blueprint set to replace Vision 2030. In a national address, he acknowledged the country’s missed economic opportunities over previous decades and called on citizens to participate in crafting the new roadmap.
The president announced that on August 12, a nationwide conversation will begin, described as the most significant public engagement since the 2010 constitution was enacted. This initiative aims to create a development charter that transcends political terms and aligns closely with constitutional aspirations.
Reflecting on Kenya’s Economic Performance
Ruto highlighted that while Vision 2030, launched in 2008, sought to propel Kenya to middle-income status by 2030, several key targets remain unmet. He cited examples of countries like South Korea, China, Vietnam, Ghana, and Zimbabwe, which have outpaced Kenya in GDP per capita growth due to sustained reforms and industrialization.
He noted that Kenya and South Korea had similar GDP per capita in 1965—around $110—but today South Korea’s stands at over $36,000 compared to Kenya’s $2,400. China and Vietnam have also surpassed Kenya despite starting from lower income levels.
Stabilizing the Economy and Building Confidence
Despite past setbacks, Ruto emphasized that his administration has restored macroeconomic stability, citing improvements such as reduced inflation, a stable shilling, increased foreign reserves nearing $14 billion, and lower borrowing costs. He also pointed to record foreign direct investment of $3.2 billion in 2025 and Kenya’s recognition as Africa’s most competitive economy in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking.
A Constitutionally Anchored Development Charter
The proposed Vision 2060 will be anchored firmly in the constitution, focusing on delivering measurable outcomes for rights guaranteed under the law, including healthcare, education, housing, food security, water, and social protection. Ruto stressed the importance of establishing clear standards and benchmarks to ensure continuity beyond electoral cycles.
He called for a broad-based national dialogue involving political parties, county governments, parliament, academia, civil society, private sector, youth, and other stakeholders to ensure the vision is citizen-driven and future-focused.
Expert Guidance and Institutional Support
Ruto revealed that a team led by Prof Hiroyuki Hino and Prof Anyang' Nyong'o has prepared strategic proposals indicating Kenya’s potential to become a prosperous, industrialized, and globally competitive high-income country within one generation if policy consistency and long-term planning are maintained.
He also highlighted the establishment of the National Infrastructure Fund and Sovereign Wealth Fund as mechanisms to finance strategic projects and preserve wealth across political administrations.
Looking Ahead
As Vision 2030 nears its endpoint, Ruto urged Kenyans to seize this opportunity to build a nation that fulfills the constitution’s promise. He emphasized that the future Kenya will be shaped by today’s choices and called on all citizens to contribute to the development of a shared national vision.
