Fellow Kenyans;
In accordance with Article 132 of the Constitution, I am honoured to
report to Parliament the measures taken and progress achieved in the
realisation of the National Values set out in Article 10 of the
Constitution, as well as the progress made in fulfilling our
International Obligations.
It is my pleasure to submit the same to this Special Sitting of the Two Houses of Parliament and to the entire Nation of Kenya.
Mr. Speaker,
The state of our Nation is STRONG!!!
We remain a country striving and ambitious, taking on our pressing challenges and not avoiding them.
We do this because we know that the path to lasting cohesion, decent
jobs for our people, can only be achieved in an environment where
fairness, integrity and the Rule of Law are observed by all citizens
without exception.
Mr. Speaker,
As President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the
Defence Forces, I have heard the cries of our people, and their stated
hopes and aspirations for a better Kenya.
When they elected me as their President, I committed to strive and
unceasingly fulfil the trust and confidence they placed in me. I will
not turn back on this commitment.
I am well aware the task ahead of us, no doubt, is enormous. But there
is no turning back in our quest to transform our national economy to
become truly an engine for creating jobs and opportunities for Kenyans.
There is no turning back on government reforms that are intended to
improve service provision to all Kenyans. There is no turning back on
fighting all enemies of Kenya, foreign or domestic, so as to ensure that
Kenyans and their property are secure.
No turning back on the obligations we have made in the Big Four Agenda,
to environmental sustainability, to inter-generational equity and to
upholding a strong rules-based international system.
There will be no turning back on the Building Bridges Initiative that
assures inclusion, cohesion, unity and respect for all Kenyans. No
turning back on the war against corruption as it is a just war, a war to
prevent misuse of public resources for selfish interests by those we
have entrusted to manage them.
We are not turning back because we are determined to gift our children a
better Kenya than the one we inherited. A prosperous Kenya where
respect for the rule of law and integrity are the accepted norms.
Mr. Speaker,
Following the Country’s first General Election under the New
Constitution, I took the Oath of Office as the first President elected
under the new Legal Order.
My first term laid the foundation for a better Kenya by building on the
promise and aspirations of the new Constitution, as articulated under
Article 10, and, therefore, set the stage to propel our country to
greater security, health, unity, prosperity, equity and justice.
Mr. Speaker,
The National Values and Principles of Governance epitomize the Vision
that Kenyans have for their Nation. The forty-three words are the
promise we have made to ourselves and the generations to come. As we
reflect on these values, let us ask ourselves as leaders in the public
and private sectors as well as ordinary Kenyans, how much we are paying
heed to these values and principles in our personal conduct.
Across the length and breadth of this Great Nation, ordinary Kenyans
continue to do extraordinary things that show that the flame of our
National Spirit burns brighter than ever before.
Our men and women in various disciplines keep the flag of Kenya flying
high at international events, bringing glory to our Nation. In this
regard, the Nation Salutes Eliud Kipchoge and his compatriots, who have
continued to make our national anthem, echo around capitals of the
World.
We are proud of Peter Tabichi, who was recently voted the Best Teacher
in the World; he has demonstrated our aspiration and potential to
deliver world-class education standards.
Our entrepreneurs and business leaders are driving forward our economy,
which, I am proud to say, remains one of the largest and most vibrant on
the continent. Leading the string of innovators is Roy Allela who
garnered global accolades for inventing smart gloves that convert sign
language movement into audio speech.
Mr. Speaker,
These Kenyans remind us, what we could achieve, if we remained true to our national values.
On behalf of a grateful Nation, I thank all of those Men and Women who
serve the Republic in whatever capacity, who uphold our Values and our
Way of Life, who, defer to what is right, who show that our Diversity is
an Asset; and all those who have paid the ultimate price to secure our
Freedoms and Way of Life.
Mr. Speaker,
Devolution remains one of the novelties of our new constitutional Order.
Since April 2013, more than 1.7 Trillion Shillings have been
transferred to the Counties.
Devolution has received the full and firm support of my Administration,
and, together with an enabling and supportive Parliament, we have seen
it transform lives, revive local economies, and bring service delivery
closer to the People.
There is No Turning Back on Devolution. The System is sound and has
proven its value and contribution to national development.
Its potential and value will be greatly enhanced by focus on service
delivery, prioritizing development expenditure, unwavering commitment to
integrity and anti-corruption, and strict commitment to value for money
in procurement. Devolution will, no doubt, transform our Nation.
Mr. Speaker,
Parliament remains a strident defender of our Democracy. I laud
Parliament for its steady guiding hand as we implement our
transformative Agenda for the Country and its commitment to playing its
constitutionally mandated oversight role.
Mr. Speaker, I also wish to acclaim Parliament for its continued
diligence. In the period under review, 22 Bills have been enacted into
Acts of Parliament, with 2 currently awaiting Presidential Assent. Some
of the groundbreaking legislation that has emanated from Parliament over
the last year include the Kenya Coast Guard Services Act, which
established our Nation’s first Coast Guard Service, the Petroleum Act,
the Energy Act and the National Youth Service Act.
Mr. Speaker, to facilitate the implementation of our programmes under
the Big Four, I urge both Houses of Parliament to fast-track the
mediation of the Land Value Index Laws (Amendment) Bill, the Physical
Planning Bill, the Irrigation Bill, the Warehouse Receipt System Bill
and Kenya Roads Bill.
Mr. Speaker,
The consideration and approval by Parliament of various Protocols,
Treaties and Sessional Papers continue to enhance Kenya’s international
standing in the community of nations, creating stability and
predictability in our Governance Framework.
During the period under review, various Treaties and Protocols have been
ratified including the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement,
the Tripartite Free Trade Area Agreement and the EAC Protocol on
Cooperation in Meteorological Services.
I am pleased to note that Parliament has also approved the National
Housing Policy and the National Policy on Climate Financing, two
sessional papers that will have tangible benefits on the day-to-day
lives of Kenyans. I look forward to continued positive engagement with
Parliament in the quest for a better Kenya.
Mr. Speaker,
The State of our Economy is STRONG!!!
Our broad-based economic growth averaged 5.6% over the last 5 years,
out-performing the average global growth. In 2018, provisional estimates
show the economy grew by 6.1%. This encouraging growth performance was
supported by strong public and private sector investments as well as
prudent macro-economic policies.
In 2018, economic growth was largely driven by the wholesale and retail
trade, real estate, information and communication and tourism.
It is worth noting that, despite the challenges facing the wholesale and
retail trade, the sector has attracted new international supermarket
chains and continues to support the expansion of domestic players.
In 2019, we expect an even stronger growth of 6.3 percent, reflecting
continued improvement in the business environment, momentum associated
with execution of the Big Four Agenda, and sustained macroeconomic
stability.
Hon Speaker,
In the same reporting Period, inflation averaged 4.6 percent, remaining
within the set target. Our official foreign exchange reserves averaged
USD. 8.7billion in the review period, representing 5.8 months of import
cover. These reserves provide the country with adequate buffer against
shocks in the foreign exchange market.
Indeed, the Kenya Shilling held steady against major currencies, with an
annual average exchange rate of Ksh. 101 to the US Dollar. This was
supported by a narrowing of the gap between our exports of goods and
services, from 5.5 percent of gross domestic product in February 2018 to
4.7 percent in February, 2019. Agricultural exports, particularly
horticulture, receipts from tourism, and Diaspora remittances largely
explain the improvement in our current account position.
In the ‘World Bank Ease-of-Doing-Business Index – 2019’, Kenya’s ranking
improved 19 places to position 61 globally. This made our Nation one of
the most improved Countries during the review period. It is our
intention to build on this success to further improve our ranking to be
among the top 50 by the year 2020.
Overall, our economic outlook remains positive; underpinned by the implementation of our transformative development agenda.
Mr. Speaker,
We remain true to our long-term strategy, the Kenya Vision 2030. The Medium Term Plan of 2018 – 2021, is the Big Four Agenda.
During this period, we expect the economy to grow at an annual average
of rate 6.6 per cent. Our focus is on socio-economic interventions in
critical sectors, that we believe will enhance the quality of life for
all Kenyans, in ways that are tangible and measurable.
In Manufacturing, my Administration is prioritizing local motor vehicle
assembly and manufacturing of spare parts. This initiative has
witnessed Peugeot and Volkswagen assembly lines set up in Kenya.
Since their revival, the two companies have jointly assembled 627 motor
vehicles; and by the end of 2019, they will have assembled at least
1,500 vehicles. This is a positive beginning for the sector that is
expected to rapidly expand and make Kenya the regional Motor Vehicle
Assembly hub.
This will create various opportunities for our people, particularly for the youth.
Mr. Speaker,
Our programme on Universal Health Coverage is expected to ensure a
healthier Nation as the basis for social and economic development.
In this regard, we have successfully rolled-out the pilot phase of the
programme in the Counties of Isiolo, Machakos, Nyeri and Kisumu.
The programme has witnessed enhanced access to essential health
services, with an average increase of 39% reported in the pilot
Counties. We are on course for the full roll-out of the universal
health coverage in the year 2019/2020 in the remaining 43 counties.
Hon. Members,
Agriculture is the largest employer in the economy, accounting for 60 percent of total employment.
In recognition of its central role, my Administration earmarked the
sector as a key pillar of the Big Four, as we seek to ensure Food
Security and Nutrition for all Kenyans.
Our reforms are farmer-centric, and are focused on reducing the cost of
food, increasing agricultural value-addition and offering incentives for
farming.
To enhance food production at household level, over the last year, we
have constructed 4,400 water pans under the Household Irrigation Water
Project. The pans will store 6 million cubic meters of water, placing
an additional 6,000 acres under irrigation.
To address the perennial challenges in the Sugar and Maize sub-Sectors,
my Administration commits to decisively act on the recommendations of
the two sectoral taskforces that are slated to report their findings
later on this month.
I expect that the teams will propose bold and transformative
interventions to revive and sustainably grow these important
sub-sectors.
Additionally, my Administration has prioritized reforms in the Coffee
sub-Sector, and implemented numerous interventions emanating from the
recommendations of the Coffee Taskforce. These include the ambitious
rehabilitation of 500 pulping stations (factories) in 31 coffee-growing
Counties.
Mr. Speaker, with a view to comprehensively resolve the problem of undue
delays in the payment cycle, we have set up a Ksh.3 billion Cherry
Advance Revolving Fund to be operational from July 1, 2019.
Consequently, all Coffee Farmers across the Country will be able to access the Cherry Advance at a modest interest rate of 3%.
Mr. Speaker,
Access to decent and affordable housing is a basic human right that my
Administration is determined and committed to honour. We are fulfilling
this through the Affordable Housing Programme. To realize this vision,
we have promulgated the Affordable Housing Development Framework
Guidelines, providing the enabling policy and financing for the roll out
of this transformative Programme.
We are now on track to deliver affordable housing to Kenyans. This life
changing programme is being undertaken in partnership with County
Governments and the Private Sector. Kenyans have shown that they are
ready for this despite court cases and initial delays. Over 175,000
Kenyans have already registered under the voluntary scheme known as
“Boma Yangu”. These Kenyans will undoubtedly be first in line for the
allocation of houses.
Additionally, the Affordable Housing Programme is expected to create
opportunities for the local industry. In this regard, we have
ring-fenced the supply of certain components, such as doors and windows,
for exclusive delivery by Micro, Small and Medium size enterprises.
This will not only put money in the pockets of our local artisans, but also supports formalization of the industry.
Mr. Speaker,
The delivery of the Big Four is on course. We expect the private sector
to take advantage of the policies and incentives in place, and turn the
four priority areas into mighty engines of wealth and job creation.
Hon. Speaker,
The realization of the Big Four is dependent on critical enablers,
including: Energy, Transport, Education, Water and Information,
Communication and Technology.
To provide reliable and cost-effective electricity that meets current
and future demand, we have put in place measures to accelerate the
development of the entire power generation, electricity transmission and
supply infrastructure. This will also support the realization of
universal access to electricity by the year 2022.
I am happy to report that installed capacity has increased from 1,768 MW
in March, 2013 to the current 2,712 MW, with Lake Turkana Wind, Ngong
Wind and Garissa Solar Power Plants joining the grid within the last
year.
In collaboration with development partners, we have made tremendous
gains in scaling-up connectivity over the last six years; with the
number of electricity connections rising from 2.264 million in March
2013 to 7.029 million as at March 2019. The tangible impact on the
lives and livelihoods of our people, associated with the increased
electricity connectivity, cannot be gainsaid.
With respect to Road infrastructure, our Agencies continue to upgrade
new roads to bitumen standards, in addition to rehabilitating existing
ones. Notable road projects completed in the last year are: 9 Km Dongo
Kundu (Mirirtini-Mwache road); 47 Km Kisumu-Kakamega road; 38 Km
Chebilat-Ikonge-Chabera road, 35 Km Oljo Orok-Dundori road; 80 Km
Kamatira-Cheptongei Road in West Pokot; and 38 km
Kisima-Kibirichia-Kina-Ruiri Road in Meru County.
Within our Capital City, we continue to rehabilitate major arteries,
including Ngong Road Phase I; Githurai – Kimbo Road (Phase II),
Waiyaki-Red Hill Road, among others. Working with the Nairobi County
Government, our intention is to positon Nairobi to join the league of
“First World Cities”. Why Not!
These interventions have facilitated faster and cheaper movement of
goods and persons, connecting our people. Better still, the expansion
and upgrading of our road network has mitigated traffic congestion and
enhanced road safety in our major cities and municipalities.
On Rail infrastructure, we are on course to completing Phase 2A of the
Region’s most iconic infrastructure project – the Standard Gauge Railway
Line from Nairobi to Naivasha, which is now at about 90% completion.
I look forward to journeying with Members from both Houses in the
inaugural SGR trip from Nairobi to Naivasha.
Hon. Members,
The Madaraka Express remains a story of remarkable success and national
pride. It has been listed among the top 13 most magnificent railway
tours for 2019.
Two and a half (2.5) million passengers have travelled by Madaraka
Express since inception in May, 2018, and, 3.881 million tons of cargo
have been transported on the line.
Mr. Speaker,
Air Transport is on a dramatic upward trajectory in Kenya. To
facilitate this, we continue to upgrade our Airports and Air-Strips
across the country.
In October 2018, Kenya was able to launch direct flights connecting
Nairobi to New York. This connectivity is expected to increase the
number of tourists to the country whilst opening up a large market in
the United States for our export produce.
Today, our transformative agenda is visible to all. These infrastructure
developments in addition to supporting the realization of the Big Four,
have opened opportunities for Big and Small Businesses and improved
the livelihoods of many Kenyans.
Mr. Speaker,
My Administration recognises the role played by micro, small and medium
enterprises in spurring the development of our country. The sector,
employs approximately 14.9 million Kenyans and contributes an estimated
28 % of our Gross Domestic Product.
To unlock the latent potential resident in the sector, my Administration
has been working towards addressing the challenges of access to credit,
training and skills development.
In this regard, we will be launching an “SME Credit Guarantee Scheme” in
few weeks, aimed at deepening their access to credit without being
subjected to complex application procedures and collateral requirements.
These interventions are critical to production of competitive goods and
services for the domestic, regional and globally markets.
In respect of the Leather Value Chain, a Common Manufacturing Unit at
Kariokor Market, in Nairobi, is nearing completion. Once fully
equipped, this Centre will provide impetus to the local shoe making
industry, to professionalize and standardize manufacture of shoes.
We are undertaking similar initiatives with the Textile Value Chain at
Uhuru Market, developing a Centre of Excellence for the modern
production of finished textile goods.
Mr. Speaker,
The above interventions are intended to promote the values of Social
Justice, Inclusivity and Access for all; ensuring that the benefits of
our growing economy are not limited to just a few people.
To facilitate inclusivity and to enable appropriate planning for the
needs of all persons, we are rolling out the 2019 National Housing and
Population Census later this year.
This Exercise, together with the National Integrated Identity Management
System (NIIMS), will ensure that all persons’ resident in Kenya will be
enumerated in order to provide accurate data that is required for
proper planning at all levels of Government.
Additionally, it is expected that when fully implemented, a
comprehensive one-stop shop for all population and national identity
records will be in place.
Mr. Speaker,
The National Values are best realized through proactive reform measures
in Education. It is in our Schools that we can best embed in our
children Human Dignity, Equity, Social Justice, Inclusivity, and all the
other Values that we cherish and hold dear.
It is for that reason that my Administration introduced curriculum
reforms designed to better align our education system with our National
Values.
The reforms are expected to mold a people who embody innovation and
excellence. The result will be a globally competitive human capital
base, having the tools for success in a fast-paced and dynamic world.
Mr. Speaker,
In fulfilment of the same, in 2018, my Administration adopted the Policy
on Universal Access to Basic Education. The Policy seeks to ensure
that all our children enroll in Primary School and complete their
Secondary School Education, with a 100% transition rate. This measure
will go a long way to ensuring that all Kenyans have access to equal
opportunities and a chance to further their passions. Our aggressive
push of this agenda has this year seen us achieve 100 percent transition
rate, the highest on the Continent.
Hon. Members,
To address the pressure on schools facilities across the Country, my
Administration has prioritized development of school infrastructure for
the Fiscal Year 2019/2020. I call on all Members of Parliament to act
in solidarity with our Children and approve the Education Budget as per
our request.
Secondly, I urge you to prioritise allocation of the Constituency Development Funds towards school infrastructure.
Mr. Speaker,
There is No Turning Back on our commitment to ensure that No Child is left behind.
As part of Tertiary Education reforms, my Administration has implemented
a rejuvenation of Vocational Training Institutions, to build on the
skills needed to contribute to Nation Building and in particular the
manufacturing pillar of the Big Four.
Over the last three years, my Administration has set aside an
unprecedented amount of resources towards supporting students joining
technical and vocational training institutions.
Mr. Speaker,
We are a country blessed with natural resources, which, if properly
managed, will transform in a big way our nation and the welfare of our
people.
We, however, must appreciate that these resources are finite. In that
context, it must be our solemn duty as a State to manage those resources
sustainably for the fair and equitable benefit of both present and
future generations.
Mindful of that solemn duty, my Administration has developed and will be
presenting during this session of Parliament, the Sovereign Wealth Fund
Bill. The Bill proposes creation of a Fund and provides a legal
framework to guide the investment of revenues from Oil, Gas, Mineral and
other qualifying Natural Resource.
The Fund, as proposed in this Bill, comprises of three parts, notably
(i) a stabilization fund; (ii) an Infrastructure and Development Fund;
and (iii) a Future Generation Fund.
It is important to underscore that, other than the cost of services of
those entrusted to manage the Fund, all the monies in the Fund will be
used to finance critical national development programmes in order to
ensure sustainability.
Mr. Speaker,
Sustainable Development is a constitutional imperative and one of the
National Values. Sustainable Development remains a core consideration
within my Government, guiding the outlook and implementation of our
Policies, Programmes and Projects across the board.
As the Host Nation of United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Kenya
remains a global leader in Environmental Conservation and Sustainable
Development.
My Administration has spearheaded the implementation of various
environmental initiatives including: Interventions for the Sustainable
Exploitation of the Blue Economy, sustained the ban on environmentally
harmful classes of plastic and polythene carrying and packaging
materials, enhanced the protection and promotion of our Nation’s forests
in line with our commitment to achieve a minimum of 10% forest cover by
2020, and interventions with regard to water and air quality.
These interventions not only protect the environment but also create
business and employment opportunities through the Green Economy.
Indeed, as a result of our interventions, Kenya is a global leader in
green energy with 85% of our energy coming from renewable resources.
Mr. Speaker,
I am delighted to update this August assembly on the progress we have
made in fulfilling our International Obligations and positioning Kenya
as a leader in the region, continent and globally.
Kenya has always and will continue to fulfil her international
obligations as a responsible Member of the Community of Nations. We do
so conscious of the fact that fidelity to international law and
commitment to our international obligations is critical to the
structured management of international and diplomatic relations, and
will promote our pursuit of common interests with other States.
Kenya is a party to over two hundred and eighty multilateral treaties.
In the past one year, we ratified three (3) multilateral treaties. These
instruments will enhance market access for Kenyan products in Africa,
share critical information and generate wealth and jobs for Kenyans.
Mr. Speaker,
My Government continues to lobby for and participate in senior positions within various international organizations.
Hon. Members,
Kenya’s election to the AU Peace and Security Council in 2019 and our
strategic decision to vie for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations
Security Council for the period 2021/2022 are geared towards affirming
Kenya’s historical pride as a leader in regional peace and security
matters.
During the period under review, Kenya has invested in robust diplomatic
engagements at a bilateral and multilateral level, in furtherance of our
strategic national interests. These include engagements with regional
partners such as Ethiopia, Namibia and Uganda; and globally with the
United States of America, Canada, France, China, and the United Kingdom,
among other peer jurisdictions.
Mr. Speaker,
Building a better Kenya is the desire of every Kenyan. But we must be
alive to the reality that this noble goal cannot be achieved if we are
operating in disharmony. Every one of us, Hon. Members, must appreciate
the importance of unity and cohesion in this pursuit. We all know the
damage that we have suffered in the past, as a result of discord among
ourselves.
Indeed, it has been and it remains an urgent agenda to bring harmony,
unity and civility to the political landscape and discourse in this
country. This is what informed the Building Bridges Initiative – the
Handshake.
In all our cultures, Mr. Speaker, a handshake is an expression of
goodwill, friendship, trust and reconciliation. It is synonymous with
peace. Our handshake has been followed by millions of handshakes across
the length and breadth of the Republic.
Leaders across the country and at every level of Government have opted
for a renewed politics of unity. This has given Kenya a new and stable
platform upon which we can rise above individual and sectarian
interests, religious divide and partisan politics as we build a better,
stronger and more prosperous Kenya.
We know very well, we successfully secured our independence because, as a people, we were united. Unity was our key weapon.
Therefore, Hon. Members, we are not turning back on uniting the
country. We have chosen the hard road of building unity and cohesion
against the easy road of division. We are a greater people for it.
Already, the Building Bridges Initiative is engaging Kenyans across the
entire country and soon will have the opportunity to comment on its
findings and recommendations.
Against this background Mr. Speaker, I reaffirm a commitment previously
made to this House of designating Ksh. 10 Billion to heal the wounds of
historical grievance which have long poisoned by our politics and
strained communal relations.
With Parliament’s help, and through the affected communities, we will be
applying the Fund towards establishing symbols of hope across the
country through the construction of heritage sites and community
information centers. These will remind us, and our future generation of
the journey taken towards reconciliation and healing. My office will
manage this initiative as part of building bridges.
Mr. Speaker,
The Unity we are pursuing is not only unity between Brothers and Sisters
within our Borders, but also Unity of the Brothers and Sisters that
form the East African Community and the Greater Continent of Africa.
The Path to Prosperity for individual African States lies in promoting
Intra-African Trade, Integration and building bridges between our
Communities and Nations that recognize that we have far more in common
than we have as differences.
Mr. Speaker,
His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of
Uganda and a Great Statesman and Pan-Africanist, recently remarked that
“the Integration of Africa is centered on three issues: Prosperity,
Security and Fraternity. When we talk about integration we are talking
about the prosperity of families of Africa, We are talking about
Prosperity of Business groups in Africa and creating space for shared
prosperity.”
Mr. Speaker, Kenya’s Prosperity, Security and Fraternity lies in ever
closer unity with our Partners in the EAC at the first level, and
thereafter wider Regional and Continental alignments. My Administration
remains committed to maximizing the Benefits for Kenya by mutually
deepening economic and eventual political integration of the East
African Community.
In line with the spirit of Pan Africanism, I wish to extend our
gratitude to the African Union for appointing one of our own to
spearhead infrastructural connectivity across the Continent. This is key
to actualizing the shared prosperity of the African people through
promoting trade between our brothers and sisters and further
strengthening our bond of unity in the great Continent.
Mr. Speaker,
We are not turning back on our quest to unite EAST AFRICA, and AFRICA.
Mr. Speaker
Turning to security, I am proud to say that the state of our National Security is equally strong.
As an island of peace in a conflict-prone and fragile region, Kenya
nevertheless faces challenges from transnational crimes such as money
laundering, terrorism financing, smuggling, narcotics, human trafficking
and the trade in illicit small arms and light weapons.
In the past year our country continued to strengthen its alliances and
partnerships for security. The skills and capabilities of our Defence,
Security and Intelligence Services have grown in leaps and bounds; and,
as a Country, we are better prepared to address the threats to our
National Security.
We honour the brave men and women who have paid the ultimate price for
our security. We thank the individual Kenyans who are willing to speak
up bravely against radicalisation and criminality and for standing up to
serve their fellow Kenyans. We announce again to our enemies, and the
world, that Kenya, as a nation, cannot be stopped by their plots and
evils.
Our will to greatness, to cohesion and unity, to development and
prosperity, and to peace and security, will never be turned back or
aside. Our practical efforts reflect this spirit.
Our response to external and transnational security threats has been:
determined reforms to our immigration system’s integrity, and the
strengthening of border security and management. Our border points are
better managed, and the establishment and continued expansion of the
Border Police Unit is deterring, detecting and disrupting threats to our
security. We have effectively adopted a ‘follow-the-money’ approach to
investigations and prosecutions that will continue to be strengthened
and applied across the range of serious crimes, including economic ones.
We have seized and destroyed confiscated narcotics, while continuing to interdict smuggled contraband and counterfeit products.
The brave men and women of the Kenya Defence Forces stand tall,
protecting the homeland from external threats. They also serve in
foreign lands as part of a global commitment to promoting and protecting
peace and security.
Within our Borders, our law enforcement and security officers are
detecting, deterring, dismantling and destroying threats to the people
and the state. They sacrifice selflessly so that Kenyans can live in
safety and freedom.
My Administration has continued to encourage participation of our people
in promoting national security and in protecting communities. Over
15,000 Nyumba Kumi clusters have been established across the country.
The unique national innovation of County Action Plans to Prevent and
Counter Violent Extremism are also being rolled out across the country.
Kenya is a country that believes in giving second chances to those who
are genuinely seeking to return to a path of legal conduct and to
embrace our constitutional values. In this regard, we are undertaking
initiatives to disengage; rehabilitate and reintegrate returnees who had
been members of listed terrorist groups.
We will continue to press the war against terrorist groups and networks,
and their facilitators. Key to this is continuing to strengthen our
legal tools against these groups so that they are unable to take
advantage of our democracy and open society, to hide in plain sight
while planning to perpetrate their crimes against humanity. Our Nation
will not turn back from the path of Democracy and the Rule of Law
because of the actions of a few criminals. We remain unshakably
committed to our Values; in this, we shall prevail.
Mr. Speaker,
In recognition of the fact that for law enforcement agencies to
effectively discharge their duties, they need to be empowered and
appropriately capacitated. We are, therefore, undertaking enhanced
training and improvements in welfare, more effective use of technology,
equipment investments, and far better coordination between and within
agencies.
Almost 2000 CCTV cameras are working in Nairobi and Mombasa, offering
real time 24-hour security monitoring. This has greatly assisted our
police in solving complicated crimes.
To foster security, the Government has repossessed 5,050 assorted
weapons illegally held by civilians as part of the ongoing firearm
verification process.
Mr. Speaker,
Kenya leads the region in developing a vibrant digital commercial
sector. In this regard, we have developed a national cyber-security
strategy; enacted the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act, implemented a
national cyber security training initiative, and established
specialized teams with defensive cyber-warfare capabilities, in an
endevour to protect the economy from cyber-crimes.
Mr. Speaker,
From the foregoing, it is clear that the State of our Nation is strong,
vibrant and beaming with promise. However, Corruption and Impunity
endangers each and every one of those gains. It compromises on the
promise of Devolution, our Economic Growth Targets, the Realisation of
the Big Four, Access to Education, Security, Human Dignity, Rule of Law
and the very existence of the Republic.
Corruption and Impunity create social distortions and divisions, fuel
inequity and poverty, destroy the fabric of society and diminish the
vitality of our Nation’s upcoming generations by setting the wrong
example for them.
There is no community, no religion, no moral code in Kenya that endorses
stealing and abusing positions of responsibility. Africans, no matter
their heritage or where they are in this continent, have ethical and
moral principles as core of their cultures.
The magnitude of the war against corruption we are fighting today is
unprecedented, taking place within our core institutions of Parliament,
the Executive, Judiciary, County Governments and also in our religious
institutions, private sector and professional bodies.
While past administrations made attempts to deal with the challenge, the
problem remained enormous and required more determined focus.
Mr. Speaker,
Following my proclamation on Anti-Corruption in 2015, my Administration
embarked on a programme to deepen the fight against the corruption
monster through strengthening and resourcing the institutions charged
with this most noble duty.
Since then we continue to witness the highest levels of engagement and action on this previously taboo subject.
For the first time in our nation’s history, eight Cabinet Secretaries
and eight Principal Secretaries have stepped aside to give way for
investigations and prosecution, a concept previously unknown in public
sector management.
Seven current and former Governors and over thirty Chief Executive
Officers of State Corporations are under active investigation or
prosecution for various corruption related offences. In several cases,
banks and other financial institutions have been fined for breach of
regulatory duty.
In fidelity with the law, upon institution of any charges against a
public or state officer, My Administration has dutifully relieved the
office holder of their public duties. Indeed, I have this morning
executed the legal instrument revoking the appointment of a High Court
Judge recommended for removal for corruption related offences.
These are the outcomes of a dedicated and resolute government, undertaken within the framework of the rule of law.
Therefore, Honorable Members, to safeguard these outcomes, the
institutions charged with this war need to be strengthened and not
weakened.
But even with the success we have made, we cannot as yet celebrate. The
challenge is still with us and requires more concerted effort to
eliminate.
Hon. Members,
Kenyans have spoken loudly and challenged us as leaders to do all it
takes to eradicate this cancer. This they did during the National
Anti-Corruption Conference held in January this year, where they tasked
me, the Speakers of Parliament, the Chief Justice and the Council of
Governors to commit to various demands that would entrench and widen the
fight against corruption.
Mindful of my cardinal responsibility, which is to serve Kenyans as
bestowed upon me by the Constitution, my Administration has opened an
all-out assault on Corruption.
In pursuit of this noble endeavor, my Administration has strengthened
the investigative, law-enforcement and prosecutorial functions of
Government and embraced the multi-agency approach to encourage joint
intelligence sharing, investigation and prosecution. These measures
have already reaped visible rewards.
Hon. Members,
It is not enough to merely jail and fine those who have looted our
public coffers. The wealth they stole from Kenyans must be returned to
its owners, the People of Kenya with the clear message being that
Corruption does not pay. It is in this context that we have entered
into asset recovery agreements with foreign countries in pursuit of a
robust restitution strategy.
In the reporting period, the Asset Recovery Agency has investigated 20
cases and preserved assets worth Kshs. 1.1 Billion. Assets worth Kshs.
72 Million were forfeited to the Government. Further, recovery
proceedings of corruptly acquired property valued at Kshs. 7.5 Billion
were instituted. Additionally, assets worth Kshs. 2.5 Billion were
recovered while bank accounts holding Kshs. 264 Million were frozen,
pending determination of recovery proceedings.
We have also introduced new accountability measures applicable at all
stages of the public finance management cycle as a critical prevention
strategy.
Mr. Speaker,
We must accept the truth, that is; one or two branches of Government cannot hope to solve this problem on their own.
That is why we look to the Judiciary to do their part, to apply the law
firmly and fairly; and for Parliament to uphold high standards, mindful
of the strategic interests of the nation in the exercise of their
legislative and oversight mandate.
We need to ensure that Corruption cases are heard and determined on a
priority basis. Kenyans are waiting to see more convictions and far less
cynical exploitation of court processes to protect the guilty.
I particularly urge the Judiciary not to appear to protect their own or
allow the abuse of privilege in cases where their officials are
suspected of, or are under active investigation for corruption.
On its part, Parliament should seek to selflessly serve in public trust and guard against pursuits of self-interests.
In saying this, I do not presume to direct the Judiciary or Parliament,
that is certainly not my constitutional place; but it is my duty, as the
Head of State, to remind every arm of Government of their solemn duty
and the high expectations of Kenyans as espoused in our National Values.
Mr. Speaker,
I also urge the county governments to work with the national government in this most important task of moral re-awakening.
Equally important, I urge every public and private institution in Kenya
to join us in waging this war against corruption and economic crimes. If
you love your country, you should reject corruption, and all those who
steal the sweat of your countrymen.
This is one war, Ladies and Gentlemen, I am certain we will win.
Hon. Members,
I must, however, caution that the pursuit of the corrupt will be
undertaken strictly within the remits of the law – and not through
vigilante justice and pitchfork protest. Though media narratives rally
our resolve as they should, our actions will not be based on
condemnation before one has been heard.
The cornerstone of our democracy is the rule of law, and the principle of due process is a critical anchor.
We must aspire abidingly to this ideal, and ensure that we do not pursue
justice in one area through injustice in another. I remain confident
in our investigative and prosecutorial institutions to diligently
deliver justice on the strength of the evidence and in fidelity to the
law.
Mr. Speaker, Honorable Members,
As I have I done before, I undertake to act and remove from government
any individual who will have a case to answer before court.
Once again Mr. Speaker, I wish to emphasize our place in history and the
national endeavor to strengthen rather than weaken our investigating
and prosecuting agencies.
Mr. Speaker,
I have spoken at length on what we have achieved in pursuit of our
development agenda, and the challenges we still need to confront so as
to realise the BETTER KENYA we all desire.
But I must once again make it clear we must work together – the
Executive, the Judiciary, the Parliament and the Citizens, if we are to
deal effectively with the challenges standing in our way and, in
particular, the fight against the corruption jigger. I count on all
Kenyans in this struggle.
There will be no turning back in the War against Corruption and
Impunity. There will be no sacred cows, no compromise. The fight
against corruption is a fight for the soul of our nation.
The values of integrity, hard work and sacrifice must be reinstated and
held dear in the eyes of our children. I intend to be the President that
delivers this future.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, it is now my pleasure to submit to Parliament the following three Reports as required by the Constitution:
(a) Report on Measures Taken and Progress Achieved in the Realisation of National Values, 2018;
(b) Report on Progress Made in Fulfilling the International Obligations of the Republic, 2018; and
(c) Report on the State of Security of Kenya, 2018.
Thank you and God bless Kenya.
