National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has emphasized the importance of balancing population growth and economic development as Kenya charts its long-term strategy beyond Vision 2030.

Speaking on August 12, 2026, at the Beyond 2030 forum held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Ichung’wah noted that population growth can either drive the nation’s progress or strain its economy.

"Population is both a resource but can also be a burden to our nation’s economy," he said. "There must be a very good balance between the rate at which our population grows and the rate at which we grow our economy."

Inclusive Consultations for Vision 2060

The forum is part of ongoing consultations to develop Vision 2060, a comprehensive development framework intended to succeed Vision 2030.

Ichung’wah assured that Parliament will support the process and called for nationwide participation. He proposed establishing specialized parliamentary committees to gather input from citizens across all 47 counties, ensuring regional representation and ownership of the new blueprint.

He also referenced insights from Mugo Kibati, the first CEO of Vision 2030, highlighting the need to learn from past experiences. Additionally, Ichung’wah cited President William Ruto’s remarks on Africa’s projected population growth by 2050 as a critical factor in Kenya’s long-term planning.

Addressing Demographic Shifts

Kenya’s demographic profile is shifting, with the 2019 census recording 2.74 million citizens aged 65 and older, about 3.9% of the population. This figure is expected to rise to 3.6 million by 2030 and surpass 10% by 2050.

This change requires Vision 2060 to accommodate both a growing workforce and an expanding elderly population. The National Gender and Equality Commission has underscored the need for enhanced social protection systems as life expectancy increases and family dynamics evolve.

Challenges and Next Steps

Kenya faces the dual challenge of creating sufficient opportunities through education, employment, infrastructure, and economic productivity to support its growing population.

The Beyond 2030 consultations will continue with active public participation across all counties. Feedback collected will shape the Vision 2060 draft before it undergoes formal approval, aiming to establish enduring priorities for Kenya’s development well beyond 2030.