Gov't Unveils Economic Gains, Intensifies Focus on Education Transition and Drought Response

NAIROBI – The government today highlighted significant economic progress while detailing interventions to address pressing challenges in education, drought, and migrant worker safety during the weekly press briefing by Government Spokesman Hon (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura.

Citing recent World Bank data, Dr. Mwaura announced that Kenya’s economy has risen to become the 6th largest in Africa, up from 8th position. He linked this growth to robust fiscal management, noting a dramatic fall in inflation and a stabilized currency.

"We have seen a sharp decline in inflation, from 9.6% in 2022 to 4.6% today, and an improved exchange rate of approximately 129.5," stated Dr. Mwaura, framing this as evidence of a recovering economic environment.

Crackdown on Corruption and Service Digitization

The Spokesman emphasized the administration's push to enhance systemic integrity through technology. He reported that the digitization of over 23,000 government services on the E-Citizen platform is now generating unprecedented revenue while combating graft.

"By removing 'human interference' through digitization, the state is collecting up to Ksh 1 Billion daily, effectively sealing revenue leakages," Dr. Mwaura said.

Addressing Grade 10 Transition Hurdles

On the ongoing transition of Junior Secondary School learners to Grade 10 under the new curriculum, Dr. Mwaura acknowledged that some students have not yet reported to school. He assured that the government is mobilizing financial support through multiple bursary channels but criticized exploitative fee demands.

"Unfortunately, some schools exploit the system by demanding excessive fees," he noted. "The government is encouraging principals to be fair and to follow the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, so we don’t hinder students who want to return to school."

Drought Intervention and Appeal for Partners

Turning to the severe drought affecting parts of the country, Dr. Mwaura revealed that the government has committed substantial funds for emergency relief. "The government committed at least 2 billion shillings, possibly increasing to 4 billion, to procure food for affected areas," he said, detailing efforts in counties like Garissa and Wajir.

He added that the government has appealed to development partners for support and expressed hope in seasonal forecasts. "The meteorological department has forecasted rains in April and May, which should help replenish food supplies. We always step up to assist our people so that no one suffers from hunger."

Warning for Kenyans Seeking Work Abroad

Dr. Mwaura issued a stern caution to citizens pursuing employment opportunities overseas, urging vigilance against unsafe practices and unscrupulous agencies.

"The Minister of Labour has issued warnings about unsafe practices, and some unauthorized recruitment agencies have been removed from the register. The government will continue to protect Kenyan workers," he affirmed.

Progress on Health and Youth Empowerment

The briefing also covered social development milestones. Dr. Mwaura announced that the Social Health Authority (SHA) has registered 29 million Kenyans, calling it a decisive step toward Universal Health Care.

Furthermore, he highlighted the success of the NYOTA program, which has disbursed over Ksh 2.8 billion to support 114,240 young entrepreneurs across 44 counties. "This is fostering a culture of saving and self-reliance among our youth," he stated.

The briefing presented a government asserting control on economic management and digital reform, while grappling with the immediate social challenges of education access, climate-induced hunger, and the safety of its overseas workforce.