President William Ruto has defended his administration's handling of the economy, saying the country's improving economic indicators show that the government has delivered on one of its biggest promises despite sustained criticism from the opposition. He said the focus should now shift from political battles to accelerating development and implementing long-term plans that will transform the country.
Speaking during a meeting with Muslim sheikhs at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday, the President said his administration inherited an economy facing major challenges but had managed to restore stability through measures that are now reflected in lower inflation, declining interest rates, a stronger shilling and increased foreign exchange reserves.
"There are things that I said I would implement and I have managed so far. First, it's the economy of the country. We had a big problem with our economy. The economy was in a bad state," Ruto said.
"Interest rates that had gone up to 20 per cent are now at 14 per cent and going down. Inflation that was 9.3 per cent is now at about 5 per cent. The dollar that was at 160–165 is now at 128–129.”
The President said the country's foreign exchange reserves had also recorded strong growth, rising from $5.7 billion, which he said was enough to cover about two and a half months of imports, to $15.3 billion, representing six and a half months of import cover.
"Those are facts you cannot argue with; they are very stubborn," Ruto said.
He urged political leaders to move away from endless political competition and instead direct their energy towards improving the country's development agenda.
"I want us to sit down and talk about development. We are used to doing politics for so many years. We are the engineers when it comes to politics, but now I want us to take that to development, not just politics," he said.
President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi on August 5,2026 while hosting Sheikhs PHOTO/PCS.
The President's remarks come just days after he unveiled the Vision 2060 framework, which he described as Kenya's next long-term development blueprint that will take over from Vision 2030 and guide the country's economic and social transformation over the next three decades.
According to the President, Vision 2060 will build on the progress made under Vision 2030 while positioning Kenya as a globally competitive, inclusive and sustainable economy by the year 2060.
Ruto also announced the formation of an advisory team led by Professor Hiroyuki Hino and Anyang' Nyong'o to lead nationwide consultations on the country's next long-term development plan.
He said the consultation process will bring together experts, policymakers, the private sector, academia and ordinary citizens to develop a shared national vision that will guide the country's future beyond the lifespan of Vision 2030.
The unveiling of Vision 2060 has drawn criticism from sections of the political opposition. However, the President dismissed the criticism and encouraged Kenyans to take part in shaping the country's long-term development agenda, saying the plan is aimed at securing the nation's future.