Kenya's National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) released the 2026 Economic Survey, confirming that GDP reached KSh 17.6 trillion (approximately $136 billion) in 2025, growing at 4.6%. A solid performance despite a turbulent global environment.
Employment, tourism and energy: the three growth drivers of 2025
Formal employment grew by 3.1% to reach 3.315 million jobs, with around 101,000 new positions created across the public and private sectors. The top formal employers were manufacturing (366,600 jobs), agriculture and forestry (311,800), retail trade (281,000) and education (251,100).
Tourism recorded a notable rebound: 2.55 million arrivals were registered, up 6.2% year-on-year. Geothermal energy generated 5,982 GWh, now accounting for 40% of the country's total electricity output — a major milestone in the country's energy transition.
Inflation tamed, shilling strengthened
Headline inflation came in at 4.1%, within the Central Bank's target band. The Kenyan shilling appreciated from KSh 134.8 to KSh 129.3 per dollar — a clear sign of restored market confidence. The trade deficit remains wide at KSh 1.65 trillion, with imports at KSh 2.77 trillion against exports of KSh 968 billion, led by tea (KSh 187 billion).
Why it matters
Kenya reaffirms its position as East Africa's leading economy and top destination for African venture capital. Growing at 4.6% in a world under trade stress demonstrates the resilience of a diversified economic model. For Indian Ocean operators, Kenya remains a natural gateway to the East African market and a strategic AfCFTA partner.
Source: KNBS — Economic Survey 2026 / Kenyan Wallstreet.