Ruto’s 2024 State of the Nation: A look back and what is expected in 2025

As President William Ruto prepares to deliver his State of the Nation Address this Thursday, many eyes are on what he will say and how it will compare to last year’s wide-ranging report to Parliament.

In his 2024 address (on November 21), Dr Ruto painted a picture of cautious optimism.

He reported that inflation had dropped from 9.6pc in 2022 to 2.7pc by October 2024--the lowest in 17 years.

He also highlighted that Kenya’s foreign exchange reserves had grown strongly, giving the country a six-to-eight-month import cover.

To further stabilise the economy, he said borrowing costs were easing and tax revenues had climbed.

On food security, Dr Ruto said his government had distributed subsidised fertiliser to more than six million farmers in 45 counties, a move he believed would significantly boost maize production.

Under his Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), he emphasized social housing, announcing nearly 4,900 housing units across 21 projects, ranging from studio to three-bedroom units.

In health, Dr Ruto defended his push for universal health coverage (UHC), which he described as a “cornerstone” of his transformation plan.

He acknowledged persistent gaps at county level--including medicine stock-outs, staff shortages and under-resourced facilities, but promised the national government would continue supporting counties.

On governance and digitisation, he pointed to major progress: thousands of government services have been digitised, and his administration has invested heavily in expanding digital infrastructure.

He argued that technology is key to fighting corruption, improving accountability and accelerating development.

Dr Ruto also addressed integrity, warning against corruption, inefficiency and wastage in public institutions.

He called on leaders to uphold national values, especially integrity, transparency and accountability and reiterated his support for stronger digital mechanisms to enforce them.

On security, he submitted reports to Parliament on national values, international obligations and the state of security--underscoring his commitment to a stable and cohesive nation.

He described his transformation agenda as tested by “unforgiving conditions,” but stressed that he remains committed to steering Kenya through them.

In foreign policy, Dr Ruto reassured Kenyans of Kenya’s global role. He said Kenya remains committed to international obligations and will continue to build strategic partnerships.

What to expect in the 2025 State of the Nation Address

Ahead of Dr Ruto’s address this week, analysts predict he will revisit many of the same themes, but with fresh focus.

Economy and debt

He is likely to highlight the need to cut waste, increase domestic revenue and reduce reliance on external borrowing.

Affordable housing

Observers expect him to report progress on his social-housing initiatives, possibly unveiling new phases.

Food and agriculture

With his last address praising fertiliser subsidies, he may provide production figures and future targets under BETA.

Health / UHC

Given ongoing concerns, he may propose new county interventions, highlight challenges and reinforce national support.

Digital transformation

He could announce new connectivity projects or digital service goals, emphasizing technology as a pillar of governance.

Anti-corruption

Expect a reiteration of his commitment to transparency, possibly with new digital tools or institutional reforms.

Security and national values

He may return to his pledge to uphold national values and address instability, reaffirming Kenya’s constitutional ideals.

Global engagement: He could highlight Kenya’s diplomatic successes, capital inflows or role in international forums.