Ruto Ksh5 Trillion Transformation Plan to Reshape Kenya
President William Ruto has unveiled the Ruto Ksh5 trillion transformation plan as a decade-long agenda aimed at rebuilding Kenya’s economy and positioning the country for long-term growth. The framework targets four major sectors: human capital, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure. The President believes the plan will give Kenya the capacity to compete globally while solving critical domestic challenges.
Human Capital Development
The Ruto Ksh5 trillion transformation plan places strong emphasis on developing Kenya’s knowledge economy. Funding for education has risen significantly in recent years, moving from KSh490 billion in 2021 to over KSh700 billion. The increased investment supports deeper reforms, including improved school infrastructure and the hiring of additional teachers and trainers across institutions.
A new State Department for Science, Research and Innovation has been created to strengthen STEM education and build a generation of innovators and engineers capable of steering national development. The government also aims to increase research investment from 0.8 percent to 2 percent of GDP to address funding shortages and accelerate technological progress.
Agriculture and Food Security
Agriculture is a major pillar of the Ruto Ksh5 trillion transformation plan. Kenya currently spends an estimated KSh500 billion on food imports, a burden the government intends to eliminate by boosting agricultural productivity. A nationwide irrigation programme will deliver 50 large dams, 200 medium and small dams, and thousands of micro-projects.
The initiative is set to bring at least 2.5 million acres of land under irrigation within five to seven years. Areas targeted include Mandera, Homa Bay, Laikipia, Kisumu, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi. The goal is to transform arid and semi-arid regions into major food production zones, supply local industries, and support export growth.
Energy Expansion
Energy development remains a priority as Kenya seeks sufficient power for industrialisation and e-mobility. The plan includes generating an additional 10,000MW using renewable resources such as geothermal, wind, solar, hydro, and nuclear energy.
Major Transport Overhaul
Transport and logistics form the backbone of the final pillar. The government will expand 2,500 kilometres of highways and tarmac 28,000 kilometres of new roads over the next decade. Upgrades are also planned for major ports and airports, along with the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Kisumu and later to Malaba to strengthen regional trade.
