President William Ruto has moved to reassure Kenyans that the government is taking decisive steps to cushion the country from the economic fallout of the ongoing Middle East conflict, as global supply chains come under pressure.
Speaking after receiving a high-level briefing from key economic agencies, the President said his administration is actively managing the situation to protect critical sectors including energy, agriculture and trade.
“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is having a significant impact on the global economy,” Ruto said, adding that Kenya is already feeling the ripple effects of disruptions across international supply chains.
The President disclosed that he had convened a meeting with the Ministries of Energy, Agriculture, Trade, the National Treasury, the Central Bank of Kenya and private sector players to assess risks and map out mitigation measures.
On fuel, Ruto acknowledged rising global oil prices but said Kenya has been shielded from immediate shocks through the government-to-government fuel import arrangement.
“While the impact on pricing is still being assessed, measures are being put in place to moderate any adverse effects and ensure that Kenya maintains adequate supplies,” he said, describing the fuel deal as a strategic intervention that has stabilized prices and guaranteed supply.
In agriculture, the President assured farmers that fertiliser supply remains secure despite global uncertainties.
“We have sufficient supplies to support the current rainy season through to September this year,” he said.
On exports, Ruto noted that Kenya’s tea sector has remained resilient despite initial fears of disruption in key markets. He attributed this to diversification efforts and stronger market linkages.
Latest figures show that 81 per cent of tea offered at auction this month was sold, up from 75 per cent in March last year.
The President also pointed to growing activity at the Port of Mombasa and the Port of Lamu, highlighting a surge in cargo throughput, including the handling of over 4,000 high-value vehicles destined for Gulf markets.
“This underscores the strategic importance of our port infrastructure,” Ruto said, adding that the government will engage international logistics firms to tap emerging opportunities and strengthen Kenya’s trade position.
However, he acknowledged challenges in the meat export sector, where logistical and freight constraints have disrupted shipments.
The Ministries of Trade and Agriculture have been tasked with finding alternative solutions to support exporters.
Ruto said the government will continue to monitor the situation closely and respond swiftly to any emerging risks.
“The Government remains committed to safeguarding the economic well-being of all Kenyans,” he said, signalling readiness to intervene further as the global situation evolves.
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