As the sun casts its golden rays across the East African landscape, a vibrant nation pulsating with the energy of a people united in their pursuit of progress celebrates its 60th National Day on Dec 12. This is Kenya, a country experiencing a remarkable transformation fueled by the unwavering commitment of its leadership and the boundless potential of its people.
Striking Parallels: A Shared Vision for Growth
Kenya’s journey towards prosperity resembles the path forged by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Both nations boast youthful populations brimming with ambition and a thirst for knowledge. This demographic dividend, with 75% of the population under the age of 35, has fostered a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, giving rise to countless small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are the lifeblood of both economies. The number of registered SMEs in Kenya has grown steadily, reaching 1.5 million in 2022, contributing over 30% to the national GDP.
Furthermore, Kenya, like the UAE, has strategically positioned itself as a gateway to its respective region. Leveraging its geographical advantages, Kenya has become a vital hub for trade and investment, with its main port of Mombasa handling over 30 million tons of cargo annually. This strategic positioning has attracted significant foreign investment, with the country receiving over USD 2 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2022.
Governance: The Cornerstone of Progress
Kenya’s commitment to good governance is undeniable. The nation has embraced a decentralised system, empowering local communities and fostering more significant participation in the decision-making process. This emphasis on transparency and accountability echoes the UAE’s robust governance framework, which has attracted global investments and further cemented its position as a leading economic powerhouse.
Investing in the Future: Education and Healthcare
A cornerstone of the Kenyan leadership’s vision is its unwavering dedication to education. Through significant investments in education and skills development, the government aims to equip 100% of primary school graduates with basic literacy and numeracy skills by 2030. This commitment has significantly increased literacy rates, rising from 73% to 78% in just the last five years.
Similarly, healthcare has been prioritised by the current leadership. Massive investments in infrastructure and technology, including constructing over 200 new hospitals and clinics, have made healthcare services more accessible and affordable for Kenyans. This focus on ensuring universal access to quality healthcare has increased life expectancy from 66 years in 2013 to 70 years in 2023.
Economic Reforms: A Blueprint for Success
Kenya’s government has implemented ambitious economic reforms that have yielded impressive results. The country has introduced business-friendly policies, such as reducing corporate taxes and simplifying regulations, which have attracted foreign investments and stimulated the growth of the private sector. As a result, the Kenyan economy has grown steadily, with a projected GDP growth rate of 5.6% in 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa.
Sustainability: A Shared Responsibility
The Kenyan leadership’s commitment to sustainable development is a source of inspiration for the entire Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Kenya has set ambitious goals for renewable energy, aiming to generate 100% of its electricity from clean sources by 2030. The country has made significant progress towards this goal, with renewable energy accounting for over 90% of its electricity generation in 2022. This commitment to clean energy echoes the UAE’s ambitious sustainability goals, further strengthening the shared vision of a future powered by clean energy and responsible resource management.
A Country of Hope: Inspiring a Region
As Kenya continues its remarkable journey of progress, it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the entire MENA region. The nation’s achievements offer a compelling blueprint for development, showcasing the transformative power of effective governance, innovative policies, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of all citizens. By embracing the Kenyan model of leadership and development, the UAE and other countries in the MENA region can pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable future for all.
Visionary leadership: Both UAE and Kenya are blessed with exceptional leadership. William Ruto, the leader spearheading Kenya’s remarkable transformation, exemplifies the vision and dedication necessary to propel a nation towards prosperity. His commitment to fostering a thriving economy, prioritising education and healthcare, and embracing sustainability has positioned Kenya as a leader on the African continent and a valuable partner for the MENA region. As Kenya continues to soar towards new heights, the world watches in awe, inspired by its remarkable journey and visionary leadership.
By –
Anurag Kashyap,
a Comms, Healthcare, Tech and ESG enthusiast
