Kenya Facts and Figures

Location and Cities
Kenya, located in East Africa, borders the Indian Ocean to the southeast, and is flanked by Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Nairobi, the capital, serves as the primary economic and administrative center, while Mombasa, the main coastal city, is pivotal for maritime trade. Other key cities include Kisumu and Nakuru. Kenya is a member of significant international organizations, such as the East African Community (EAC) since 1967, and the African Union (AU) since 1963. Joining the EAC in 1967 facilitated regional trade and cooperation. Its membership in the AU since 1963 highlights its longstanding commitment to continental unity and development. Furthermore, Kenya's adoption of the Vision 2030 economic blueprint in 2008 aimed to transform the nation into a newly industrializing, middle-income country, contributing to significant improvements in infrastructure and public services.

Historical and Political Events
The Mau Mau Uprising (1952-1960) against British colonial rule catalyzed the path to independence, achieved in 1963. Post-independence, the country faced political challenges, including the 2007-2008 post-election violence that led to significant political and social reforms. The implementation of the new constitution in 2010 marked a transformative shift, decentralizing power and enhancing democratic governance. This reform led to increased political stability and economic growth, reinforcing Kenya's position as a regional leader in East Africa.

Demographic Insights
Kenya's population in 2023 is 55 million, with a population density of 93 people per sq. km (2021). The working-age population comprises 59.3% (2022), indicating a potential for economic productivity but also a need for adequate job creation. The median age is 20 years (2024), showcasing a predominantly young population, which implies future demographic growth. Life expectancy at birth is 62 years (2022), reflecting healthcare challenges. The population growth rate is 2.0% annually (2023), driven by a fertility rate of 3.3 children per woman (2022). The crude death rate is 7.8 per 1,000 people (2022), and the infant mortality rate stands at 30.5 per 1,000 live births (2022), indicating areas for improvement in health services. An urbanization rate of 29.5% (2023) indicates ongoing rural-to-urban migration, affecting infrastructure and services.

Economic Overview
Kenya's economy, with a GDP of $107.4 billion in 2023, ranks 67th globally. The GDP growth rate of 5.4% in 2023 indicates steady economic expansion. Inflation rate was7.7% in 2023, decreasing to 6.6% in 2024, reflecting efforts to stabilize prices. Exports of goods in 2023 amounted to $7.2 billion, while imports reached $18.6 billion, resulting in a trade balance deficit of $11.4 billion. Agriculture contributes 21.2% to the GDP, industry 17.7%, and services dominate with 55.1%. Within industry, manufacturing accounts for 7.8% of GDP. Unemployment was 5.7% in 2021, up from 5% in 2019, highlighting labor market challenges. For businesses exploring opportunities, market research in Kenya can provide valuable insights into these economic dynamics and sectoral contributions.

Kenya's Public Finance
In 2022, Kenya received Net Official Development Assistance (ODA) equivalent to 2.4% of Gross National Income (GNI), reflecting international support for development initiatives. The country's net lending/borrowing stood at -6.11% of GDP in 2022, showing a substantial deficit exacerbated by economic pressures. By 2023, this deficit narrowed to -5.25% of GDP, indicating efforts to stabilize fiscal performance amid ongoing challenges. Kenya's central government debt increased from 37.62% of GDP in 2012 to 67.94% in 2022, underscoring rising fiscal pressures.

Military Overview
Kenya's military comprises 24,000 personnel as of 2016, accounting for 0.0495% of the total population, highlighting its role in national defense. The country allocated 1.1% of GDP to military spending in 2021, which decreased slightly to 1% in 2022, indicating Kenya's ongoing investment in defense amidst economic considerations, ensuring strategic readiness and operational capability.

Conclusion
Partnering with a market research agency in Kenya is essential for navigating its diverse economic, demographic, digital, military, and political landscape. Understanding consumer preferences, digital trends, and the impact of government policies requires precise data analysis. A local agency helps businesses tailor strategies that resonate with Kenya's conditions.