The government has introduced the Fourth Medium Term Plan (MTP IV) 2023-2027, a strategic five-year initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation’s economy in alignment with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Economic Growth Targets
MTP IV aims to increase the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to 7.2% by the fiscal year 2027/2028, up from 4.8% recorded in 2022. The Culture and Heritage Principal Secretary (PS), Umi Bashir, emphasized that the plan aligns with long-term development goals extending to 2063.
Infrastructure Development
Key infrastructure projects include the construction of 6,000km of new roads, upgrading over 101,000km of existing roads, and installing 277 footbridges to improve connectivity across Kenya.
Additionally, the plan outlines the construction of one million affordable housing units, laying 4,600km of high-voltage transmission lines, and expanding the national fiber-optic network by 100,000km.
Education Enhancements
In education, the government plans to enhance access and quality by recruiting 56,000 teachers and establishing the National Open University at Konza Technopolis, initially enrolling 1,000 students.
Healthcare Reforms
Healthcare reforms under MTP IV include the enactment of the Social Health Insurance Act (2023) to achieve Universal Health Coverage.
This will be supported by the rollout of Primary Health Care Networks and the deployment of 100,000 Community Health Promoters.
Social and Economic Initiatives
The government is committed to social initiatives such as expanding the Women Enterprise Fund and providing subsidized fertilizer to farmers to boost agricultural productivity.
Additionally, significant reforms will bolster judicial independence, enhance law enforcement efficiency, and curb predatory lending through initiatives like the hustler fund.
Employment and Economic Zones
President Ruto highlighted investments in special economic zones and industrial parks, along with measures to facilitate market access for MSMEs, as key components to foster employment.
Local Implementation Focus
Wajir County Commissioner Karuku Ngumo emphasized the plan’s focus on inclusivity and local empowerment.
Ngumo noted that Wajir’s unique challenges and opportunities necessitate tailored solutions that align with broader national objectives. He encouraged local leaders and residents to actively engage in the implementation process, underscoring the importance of community feedback and collaboration.
Key Components of MTP IV:
| Sector | Key Initiatives |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure | – Construct 6,000km of new roads <br> – Upgrade 101,000km of existing roads <br> – Install 277 footbridges |
| Education | – Recruit 56,000 teachers <br> – Launch National Open University |
| Healthcare | – Enact Social Health Insurance Act <br> – Deploy 100,000 Community Health Promoters |
| Social Initiatives | – Expand Women Enterprise Fund <br> – Provide subsidized fertilizer |
| Economic Initiatives | – Invest in special economic zones <br> – Facilitate market access for MSMEs |
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