Kenya has officially risen to the sixth-largest economy in Africa, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $131.67 billion, according to new data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This remarkable achievement was highlighted by President William Ruto during his Labour Day address at Uhuru Park, Nairobi, on Thursday.
In his speech, President Ruto lauded the resilience and dedication of Kenyan workers and the business community across both public and private sectors, attributing the country’s economic progress to their collective efforts.
“The stability and growth of our economy are owed to the hard work of every Kenyan — from our traders to our civil servants. Together, we have lifted this nation from 8th to 6th place among Africa’s leading economies in just two years,” President Ruto declared.
AFRICA’S ECONOMIC RANKING: KENYA ON THE RISE
With 54 countries, Africa’s economies vary significantly — from resource-rich giants to emerging markets striving to diversify and modernize. According to the IMF’s 2025 projections, South Africa leads the continent with a GDP of $410.34 billion, followed by Egypt ($347.34 billion) and Algeria ($268.89 billion). Kenya’s advancement to 6th place places it ahead of regional peers such as Ethiopia, Angola, and Ghana.
Top 10 African Economies by GDP in 2025 (USD Billion):
| Rank | Country | GDP (USD Billion) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 410.34 |
| 2 | Egypt | 347.34 |
| 3 | Algeria | 268.89 |
| 4 | Nigeria | 188.27 |
| 5 | Morocco | 165.84 |
| 6 | Kenya | 131.67 |
| 7 | Ethiopia | 117.46 |
| 8 | Angola | 113.34 |
| 9 | Côte d’Ivoire | 94.48 |
| 10 | Ghana | 88.33 |
CLARIFICATION ON CHINA STATE VISIT
Addressing speculation surrounding his recent state visit to China, President Ruto made it clear that Kenya did not seek additional loans, but instead pursued investment partnerships to support infrastructure development.
“During my China state visit, many thought I had gone to secure more loans. That wasn’t the case,” the President explained. “We agreed on the construction of the Rironi–Nakuru–Malaba road, not on loan terms, but as an investment-based agreement.”
This announcement reflects the administration’s broader shift toward sustainable financing models that prioritize economic partnerships over debt accumulation.
A PATH FORWARD
President Ruto reaffirmed his government’s commitment to creating a favorable investment environment, expanding infrastructure, and empowering Kenyan workers as central pillars for future growth.
As the country celebrates Labour Day, Kenya’s economic leap forward stands as a testament to collective national effort, strategic partnerships, and a vision anchored in self-reliance and innovation.
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