Home Business Ruto: Kenya Tops East Africa with Record $10.3 B Dollar Reserves

Ruto: Kenya Tops East Africa with Record $10.3 B Dollar Reserves

“Saba Saba Is a Flame of Freedom, Not a License for Chaos” – Veteran Leader Speaks Out Mukhtasari Saba Saba marked as a day of sacrifice, not violence 7/7/1990 remembered for bold stand at Kamukunji Grounds Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia hailed as freedom icons Call to honour, not distort, the spirit of Saba Saba Warning against turning peaceful remembrance into clashes Not a Day for Violence A respected political elder has spoken firmly ahead of Monday’s Saba Saba commemorations, urging Kenyans to treat the day with the respect it deserves. He reminded the public that Saba Saba is not meant for riots, tire burnings, or street battles with police. “This day is soaked in the blood of patriots. It’s not a license for chaos,” he said. The True Meaning of 7/7 Recalling the historic events of July 7, 1990, the veteran pointed to Kamukunji Grounds as the cradle of Kenya’s multiparty revolution. He emphasized that the fight was for democracy, not destruction. “I didn’t sit with Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia to start a war — we sparked a revolution for dignity and pluralism,” he stated. Remember, Don’t Hijack He warned against using the occasion to incite violence or politicize the memory of those who fought for Kenya’s democratic freedoms. The struggle, he said, was already won at Kamukunji — now it’s time to guard that legacy. “The true battlefield was then. Today, we honour. Let us not twist Saba Saba into a circus of noise.” Honour the Flame, Not the Fight Calling for peace and reflection, the leader stressed that the true spirit of Saba Saba lives in the history and sacrifice — not in running battles or social media outrage. “The flame was lit at Kamukunji, not on the tarmac. Let’s keep it burning, not turn it into smoke.”
  • President Ruto says Kenya’s reserves now stand at $10.3 billion—the highest ever.
  • Inflation has fallen from 9.6% in 2022 to 3.8% in 2025.
  • He praised ordinary Kenyans—farmers, workers, and service providers—for their contribution.
  • CBK commended for its role in managing inflation and the exchange rate.
  • Kenya is projected to overtake Ethiopia with a GDP of $132 billion.

Kenya has reached a new economic milestone with its foreign exchange reserves climbing to an all-time high of $10.3 billion. Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday, President William Ruto linked this success to the grit and determination of everyday Kenyans, saying the progress didn’t come by chance.

According to the President, the improvement is a strong signal that the country’s economy is getting stronger, driven by better food supply, strict financial controls, and the dedication of citizens across various sectors.

Farmers and Hustlers Behind Economic Comeback

President Ruto highlighted that inflation, which stood at 9.6% in 2022, has dropped to 3.8% in 2025. He credited this to hardworking farmers increasing food production and more responsible public spending. He emphasized that the real heroes of this recovery aren’t economists but ordinary Kenyans who wake up daily to feed, build, and keep the nation running.

“Our progress is thanks to wananchi—the people who farm, build, treat the sick, and keep Kenya moving,” he said.

He gave a special mention to workers in construction, farming, and healthcare, thanking them for making sure Kenya keeps moving forward.

Central Bank Gets Praise as Kenya Eyes Top Spot

President Ruto also commended the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) for helping stabilize the exchange rate and protect the country’s foreign reserves. He said the government and the CBK are working closely to keep the economy strong.

With these gains, Kenya is now on track to become the biggest economy in East Africa, according to the latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) projections. Kenya’s GDP is expected to reach $132 billion this year, placing it ahead of Ethiopia, which is projected at $117 billion.

As the President noted, these numbers reflect a growing confidence in Kenya’s future—driven not by luck, but by hard work.