Economy of Kenya
An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Economic Domains
Growth & Output
Trade & Finance
Labor & Income
Economic Snapshot Overview
A summary of key economic indicators for Kenya
- The economic architecture of Kenya is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $108.04B2023. This places it as the 66th largest economy out of 192 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $1.95K2023, while its GDP adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is estimated at $349.04B, offering a clearer picture of the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is experiencing a period of vigorous expansion, with a high growth rate of 5.6%2023, while managing moderate inflation, with a CPI of 4.5%.2024
- On the global stage, Kenya's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of international and domestic factors. The nation's economic activity is heavily reliant on foreign goods, running a considerable trade deficit with imports at 20.4% of GDP and exports at 11.7%2023. The investment climate attracts significant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with inflows constituting 0.67% of the economy2023. This performance positions the country 135th globally out of 187 nations, confirming its status as a competitive destination for foreign capital. Furthermore, personal remittances from its diaspora are a vital component of the economy, amounting to a substantial $4.23B annually2023. The government operates under fiscal constraints, with a limited tax base that generates revenue equivalent to only 14.0% of GDP.2023
- The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $2,1102023, ranking the nation 147th out of 191. This figure provides a comprehensive measure of the average income per person, reflecting the nation's overall economic well-being. The labor market remains stable, with an unemployment rate of 5.4%.2024A key feature of the workforce is its concentration in the services sector, which accounts for 52.2% of total employment2023. Despite its economic standing, poverty remains a salient issue, with 38.6% of the population living below the national poverty line2021. The nation exhibits a moderate degree of income inequality, with a Gini index of 38.7.2021
- In the environmental and energy sectors, the nation's policies and outcomes reflect its developmental priorities. Energy consumption per capita stands at 543.766 kg of oil equivalent2023, a metric that often correlates with industrial activity and living standards. The country is at the forefront of the global green transition, with renewable sources constituting a remarkable 67.7% of total final energy consumption2021. This commitment places it 162nd among 191 countries, highlighting its relative progress in decarbonization. Total greenhouse gas emissions were last recorded at 107.98K tonnes of CO2 equivalent2023, a key factor in its national climate strategy and international obligations.
Key Economic Insights
Macroeconomic Health
Balancing growth, inflation, and employment remains the core challenge for economic stewardship.
Trade & Investment Profile
The economy is largely insular and consumption-driven, relying heavily on imports and showing limited integration into global export markets.
Social Equity & Distribution
Ensuring equitable distribution of economic gains is fundamental for long-term social and political stability.
Energy & Sustainability
A global leader in the green transition, the country leverages its strong commitment to renewable energy as a key economic and diplomatic advantage.
More About This Country
Neighbors & Regional Peers
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.