President William Ruto has claimed that Kenya has risen to become the sixth-largest economy on the African continent.

During the State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Thursday, November 20, 2025, Ruto praised his government’s efforts in moving the country from the eighth to the sixth position, as ranked by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

According to Ruto, two years ago, Kenya was ranked the eighth-largest economy in Africa, with a GDP of Ksh14.8 trillion. He noted that the country’s GDP has now grown to Ksh17.54 trillion, elevating Kenya to the sixth-largest economy on the continent.

“Two years ago, Kenya was ranked the eighth-largest economy in Africa, with a GDP of 115 billion US dollars. Today, the country’s GDP has increased to 136 billion US dollars, positioning Kenya as the sixth-largest economy on the continent, according to the IMF,” Ruto said.

Ruto emphasised that this significant growth is the result of deliberate policy decisions, disciplined implementation, and strategic reforms under his leadership that have strengthened the economy and unlocked its potential.

Ruto further highlighted that Kenya’s foreign reserves have surpassed 12 billion US dollars, the highest in the country’s history since independence. He said this milestone has improved economic stability, shielded the economy from external shocks, and boosted investor confidence.

“Kenya’s foreign reserves have now surpassed 12 billion US dollars, marking the highest level in the country’s history since independence. This milestone has enhanced economic stability, shielded the economy from external shocks, and bolstered investor confidence,” he added

Foreign reserves

The President also pointed out that international markets have taken note of Kenya’s progress.

He said 14 of the world’s leading financial institutions, including Citigroup, JP Morgan, Standard Chartered, and Goldman Sachs, project that Kenya’s economy will expand between 5 and 5.8 per cent in 2026.

Ruto attributed this positive outlook to strong economic fundamentals, lower credit costs, rising exports, and improved household spending supported by low inflation and a stable macroeconomic environment.

Ruto also underscored that Standard & Poor’s has upgraded Kenya’s sovereign credit rating from B-minus to B, marking the first upward revision in many years and signalling renewed international confidence in the country’s economy.