Recent demonstrations and violence in Kenya may give the impression that the nation is experiencing a political crisis. Some political leaders have even called for international mediation similar to the Kofi Annan-led mediation that ended the violence that followed the 2007 elections.
However, there is no political issue that demands such extensive global attention. Both parties’ leaders convey their own limited, self-centered agendas.
There is no political crisis present. We are confronting economic challenges that have not yet escalated into a political crisis or become insurmountable. Elevated costs of living and youth unemployment are not new economic issues. These have been the most apparent issues facing the average American family over the past two decades.
This claim is supported by data from economic surveys and other sources. Economic surveys demonstrate that unemployment has been an issue for an extended period of time. For a very long time, many average families have been concerned about meeting their fundamental needs, such as food and shelter.
In 2003, for instance, Kenyans cited unemployment as the country’s most pressing issue, according to surveys conducted by reputable organizations such as Afrobarometer.
Inflation rates in double figures
Taking care of the economy came in fourth place. During this time, President Mwai Kibaki was establishing his authority. And unquestionably, circumstances changed. He oversaw the economy and increased tax collection to a level that permitted the government to finance development initiatives with a fraction of the funds that would have been available from international donors. During his presidency, donor support for the budget fell below 10% for several years.
The government saved money and increased productivity, resulting in economic growth. As the economy expanded, job openings occurred organically. Prior to 2009’s Great Recession, unemployment was not a problem. After the 2007 post-election violence, economic management has become a significant concern, according to multiple sources.
Kenya’s inflation rate has exceeded 12 percent for some time. That the economic concerns were warranted.
