Government Defends Kenya's Global Image, Highlights Economic Growth and Key Development Milestones, Says Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura

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The Government has defended Kenya's international reputation while highlighting key economic and development achievements, urging Kenyans to promote national unity and safeguard the country's image.

Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex on Monday, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said Kenya remains a safe, stable and attractive destination for tourism, investment and business despite attempts by some leaders and online personalities to portray the country negatively.

Mwaura termed calls discouraging tourists from visiting Kenya as economic sabotage, noting that the tourism sector continues to record strong growth. He revealed that international arrivals have risen from approximately 1.48 million to 2.2 million visitors, while domestic tourism has reached 5.2 million travelers, bringing the total number of tourists to about 7.5 million.

The spokesperson also called for national unity, emphasizing that the Kenya Kwanza administration is implementing development projects across all regions without discrimination. He cited investments in infrastructure, affordable housing, digital connectivity and economic empowerment programmes in Northern Kenya, the Coast, Eastern, Western and the Mount Kenya region.

On allegations surrounding the Ol Kalou by-election, Mwaura urged anyone with credible evidence relating to reported crimes to present it to investigative agencies instead of spreading unverified claims. He stressed that all allegations should be investigated independently and in accordance with the law.

The Government also announced that the Kenya Revenue Authority's third tax amnesty programme is now underway, offering a 100 percent waiver on penalties, fines and interest for tax debts accrued up to December 31, 2025. The programme runs from July 1 to December 31, 2026, and aims to encourage voluntary tax compliance.

Mwaura further disclosed that Kenya's economy expanded by 5.3 percent in the first quarter of 2026, driven by strong performance in manufacturing, construction, agriculture and the services sector, describing the growth as evidence of the country's economic resilience.

Addressing concerns over the proposed SACCO Societies Amendment Bill, he dismissed claims that the legislation would centralize control of SACCO funds, saying the reforms are intended to strengthen smaller SACCOs while protecting members' rights.

On disaster preparedness, the Government said it has activated a nationwide multi-agency response ahead of the anticipated El Niño rains, with emergency teams, relief supplies and early warning systems already in place to minimize the impact of flooding and landslides.

The spokesperson also announced that Sh1.8 billion has been disbursed to more than 133,000 vulnerable households in eight arid and semi-arid counties under the Hunger Safety Net Programme to cushion families against drought and food insecurity.

In the health sector, Mwaura revealed that Kenya has signed a USD 1.686 billion (approximately Sh217 billion) strategic health partnership with the United States to strengthen Universal Health Coverage and improve healthcare financing over the next five years. He also confirmed that 7,440 Universal Health Coverage workers have been transitioned to permanent and pensionable terms.

Defending the Social Health Authority's digital platform, Mwaura clarified that the 2 percent service fee charged through the system is provided for under the Digital Health Act and supports electronic processing of healthcare claims, adding that the service provider has no control over public health funds.

Finally, the Government announced the extension of the reduced 8 percent VAT on petroleum products until October 14, 2026, alongside continued fuel stabilization measures aimed at protecting consumers and businesses from global fuel price volatility.

Mwaura urged Kenyans to remain united, support national development initiatives and continue promoting Kenya's positive image both locally and internationally.

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