President William Ruto has defended the government’s plan to develop Vision 2060, describing it as a long-term roadmap aimed at addressing Kenya’s persistent challenges and securing a better future for generations to come. Speaking during the Beyond 2030 Summit at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Wednesday, Ruto said the country needed to move away from focusing primarily on electoral cycles and instead develop policies that would benefit future generations.
The President argued that political considerations have often prevented leaders from implementing long-term reforms because of concerns about how such decisions could affect their chances of winning elections. Ruto maintained that criticism would not discourage him from supporting policies that he believes are necessary for Kenya’s long-term development.
Ruto Calls for Collective Vision
The President said Kenya’s future should not be shaped by one individual or political group, but through the contribution of different sectors of society. He called for a broad national conversation involving various stakeholders to develop a shared development agenda beyond 2030.
Ruto said his administration remained committed to promoting inclusive development and reducing inequality across the country. He urged Kenyans to participate in shaping the country’s next long-term development blueprint rather than leaving the responsibility to political leaders alone.
Vision 2060 to Succeed Vision 2030
Ruto launched the process of developing Vision 2060 on July 30, with the framework expected to succeed Vision 2030 as Kenya’s long-term development strategy. The government says the process will involve nationwide consultations, bringing together stakeholders from the private sector, academia, civil society, faith-based organisations, professional bodies, workers, creatives and the youth.
The initiative is intended to establish long-term priorities for Kenya’s economic and social transformation beyond the current Vision 2030 framework.
Gachagua Criticises Long-Term Plan
However, the Vision 2060 initiative has attracted criticism from opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Gachagua has questioned the priority of developing a decades-long development plan at a time when Kenyans continue to face economic difficulties and security concerns.
Despite the criticism, Ruto has maintained that Kenya must begin planning for the needs of future generations rather than allowing short-term political considerations to dictate the country’s development agenda.
