The Report: Kenya 2017

Book excerpt: As the largest economy in the EAC and COMESA in terms of GDP, Kenya has positioned itself as a major economic power in sub-Saharan Africa. Traditionally a largely agrarian economy, Kenya has quickly entrenched its position as a manufacturing, logistics and technology hub in the region, and this diversification forms a solid platform from which the government can generate economic growth over the coming years. The resolution of the electoral process, improving business confidence and strong private consumption are likely to support GDP expansion over 2018 and into 2019. In April 2018 the IMF estimated the economy would expand by 5.5% in 2018 and 6% in 2019, compared to 4.8% in 2017.