President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening engagement with the private sector, describing it as a “central pillar” of Kenya’s economic transformation agenda.

Speaking on Wednesday morning during a presidential roundtable with business leaders, Ruto pointed to several macroeconomic indicators to support his optimism.

He said the country’s economy has shown strong signs of recovery and resilience, ranking sixth largest in Africa, with inflation falling from 9.6% in 2022 to 4.1% in July 2025.

“If the Kenyan economy were a living body, its vital signs would confirm robust health,” said Ruto, citing the stable exchange rate of Sh129 to the dollar and increased foreign reserves, which have grown from Sh845 billion to Sh1.534 trillion.

He further noted that the Nairobi Securities Exchange had rebounded, with market capitalization now standing at Sh2.5 trillion.

The Head of State praised the private sector for its role in flagship government programmes such as the Affordable Housing initiative, which has generated over 320,000 jobs.

He highlighted the localization of supply chains, with Sh11 billion channeled to the Jua Kali sector to manufacture building components, stimulating grassroots businesses and driving inclusive growth.

Ruto also underscored Kenya’s global leadership in digital innovation and financial inclusion, with tourism, ICT, and agriculture among sectors showing robust performance.

To sustain this momentum, the President directed the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry to fast-track business-friendly reforms, including the submission of the Business Laws (Amendment) Bill 2025 by the end of August and the full digital rollout of a one-stop investment center by June 2026.

While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Ruto called for unity and determination in building a fair and inclusive society, driven by enterprise and shared purpose.