President William Ruto has called for a citizen-led national conversation to shape Kenya’s long-term development agenda as Vision 2030 approaches the end of its course.
Presiding at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, the head of state noted that Kenya has recorded great developments under Vision 2030, a national vision that late President Mwai Kibaki launched in 2008.
He cited major infrastructure projects, including Lamu Port, the Isiolo-Moyale road and the Nairobi Expressway, as some of the achievements that have improved connectivity, expanded opportunities and strengthened the country’s foundation for future growth.
The president said next phase should go beyond developing another set of targets, a collective imagination of the Kenyans about their preferred county.
He reiterated that a development plan should start with the people and must come from the people who live in the communities where the changes will be implemented.
“To the extent that we know public participation has provided only the constitution at the moment. We have an opportunity this time round, different from the opportunity that was in 2008 to formulate a long-term plan, one that is done by the people, not by government, not by bureaucrats.” he said
According to Ruto, it will play a pivotal role mainly by setting up platforms and providing institutions through which Kenyans can participate in decision-making about the direction of their country.
Ruto said that the talk must involve youth entrepreneurs farmers workers teachers, civil society, and religious groups together with other stakeholders.