Kenyan activists tell IMF the government is stoking poverty

Kenyan Activists Accuse Government of Fueling Poverty in IMF Briefing
A coalition of Kenyan non‑governmental organisations has delivered a scathing briefing to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), accusing President William Ruto’s administration of exacerbating economic inequality and worsening poverty through reckless borrowing and fiscal policy. The document, submitted during the IMF-World Bank annual meetings in Washington, argues that the government’s tax hikes and increasing debt burden are not serving development but rather political patronage.
In their appeal, the activists — operating under the umbrella group Okoa Uchumi ( Rescue the Economy ) — warn of a multi-dimensional risk system emerging in Kenya. According to them, macroeconomic fragility, poor governance, and social instability are deeply intertwined, fueled by government decisions that benefit elite networks more than ordinary citizens.
They cite a range of unpopular measures introduced in recent years, including a new housing levy and mandatory contributions to a national health scheme.
Investing.com
The briefing calls on both the IMF and the World Bank to recalibrate their financial support to Kenya by placing stronger emphasis on governance reforms — not just economic targets. The activists argue that unchecked borrowing and spending decisions are being used to sustain political patronage, at the expense of public welfare.
While IMF officials previously conducted a governance diagnostic in Kenya, the groups say this must translate into concrete reforms if future lending is to be truly effective.
Reuters
Looking ahead, the campaigners hope their intervention will influence the IMF’s upcoming financial programme with Kenya. They stress that any new assistance must be tied to accountability and institutional strengthening, not just debt sustainability. If their demands are met, Kenya could see a shift toward more equitable development; if ignored, critics warn that the country risks locking in a cycle of debt and social division.