This archive report was first published on 24 December 2019.
As we reflect on Kenya's journey, it's clear that our nation is at a crossroads. We have the potential to become a leading nation, but the status quo cannot be maintained if we are to fulfill our destiny.
One of the most pressing issues facing our nation is inequality. Despite the presence of wealthy individuals who have made their fortunes through technology and business, a significant portion of our population still lives under the poverty line.
However, Kenya is in a relatively better position compared to other East African countries. But this is no excuse for remaining one of the world's poorest nations. Historical circumstances have not made it easy, but we must recognize that we have the power to shape our own future.
The Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) has brought many issues of national importance to the forefront of public discourse. One of the biggest topics that should be on all of our minds is shared prosperity. The first order of action is embarking upon an economic revolution.
Revolution is a powerful word, but it need not always be paired with violence. It's about creating a new system that benefits the lives of all Kenyans. The BBI taskforce has taken their choice of wording seriously, and it's time for us to take action.
At the root of many societal problems is money. How do we regulate it, how do we equitably share it, and how do we allocate it so that it helps as many people as possible? The BBI suggests that our economic vision needs to be long-term, thinking in the short term might be easier, but it's not the way a state working on strengthening its economy should function.
The Big Four and Vision 2030 lay out the foundation for long-term planning. They are not just about President Kenyatta's legacy, but about setting up a functioning system that will continue long after new leaders are elected.
Strengthening manufacturing is one of the Big Four's main principles. The government is also working on promoting markets in neighboring countries to trade our goods. As for budget, the BBI suggests striving for a 70:30 ratio on development versus recurrent expenditure.
But all economists will tell you that national spending must be equitable based on need and population size. The recent census, conducted fully by an African government, is a positive step towards ensuring that underserved counties receive the financial attention they deserve.
Revolution is not an easy path, but it's sometimes the only option for real improvement. We have reached a critical time in our nation's history, and we need to come together to make the decision to improve our lives. It cannot be done alone.
