ODM leader John Oburu Odinga has emphasized the urgent need for Kenya to address corruption and curb government wastage to achieve economic transformation akin to Singapore's.

Speaking on August 12, 2026, at the Beyond 2030 dialogue held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Oburu pointed out that Kenya and Singapore were at similar development levels during their independence in the 1960s. However, Singapore has since surged ahead in income per capita and overall growth.

Lessons from Singapore's Growth

Oburu highlighted ongoing discussions within ODM, including reflections by his late brother Raila Odinga, on how Singapore managed its rapid development. He noted insights from Professor Hiroyuki Hino, a former adviser to Raila, on the widening economic gap between the two nations.

"The key to closing this gap is tackling corruption," Oburu stated. He acknowledged the challenge of eradicating corruption but expressed confidence that Kenya could cultivate a society intolerant of such practices.

"Having traveled extensively, I am convinced it is possible to build a society that does not tolerate corruption," he added.

Calls for Fiscal Discipline

Beyond corruption, Oburu urged government leaders to exercise fiscal responsibility by eliminating unnecessary expenditures. He stressed the importance of tightening budgets to serve Kenyan citizens better.

Vision 2060 and National Development

Oburu's remarks came amidst ongoing national consultations on Kenya's Vision 2060, a long-term development blueprint succeeding Vision 2030. The dialogue at KICC attracted over 5,000 delegates from all counties, led by President William Ruto.

Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, chairing the drafting committee, noted that Vision 2030 had fulfilled its mandate and called for the new plan to withstand political changes and adapt to global economic shifts.

The dialogue will continue with public participation across counties before the final plan undergoes approval.

Oburu’s intervention places corruption control, prudent public spending, and accountability at the forefront of Kenya’s future development strategy, underscoring that achieving Singapore’s level of progress hinges on these reforms.