NAIROBI, April 29 – Kenya’s economy expanded by 4.6% in 2025, slightly below the 4.7% recorded the previous year and under the government’s earlier projection, according to official data.
The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics said growth remained broad-based, supported by key sectors including agriculture, construction, mining, and quarrying.
Earlier in the year, the finance ministry had projected stronger growth of 5.0%, highlighting a modest gap between expectations and actual performance.
Looking ahead, the statistics agency forecasts economic growth of 4.9% in 2026. However, it cautioned that the outlook remains fragile, particularly due to global disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions.
Like many African economies, Kenya is heavily dependent on imported energy, leaving it exposed to fluctuations in global fuel markets. The ongoing Middle East conflict has already strained supply chains, forcing authorities to manage potential shortages of essential commodities such as fuel.
These external pressures are also expected to drive inflation higher, which could weigh on consumer spending and overall economic activity.
As a result, while Kenya’s growth remains relatively resilient, its near-term trajectory will depend heavily on how global energy markets and geopolitical risks evolve.
