IMF Concludes Mission to Kenya, Discusses Reforms for Sustainable Economic Growth
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff mission, led by Ms. Haimanot Teferra, has concluded a two-week visit to Nairobi aimed at assessing Kenya’s economic situation and discussing potential reforms to support a new IMF-backed programme.
The mission, which took place from 25 September to 9 October 2025, involved consultations with President William Ruto, Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi Ng’ongo, and Central Bank Governor Kamau Thugge, along with their respective teams. The IMF delegation also met with members of Parliament, representatives from civil society, the private sector, financial institutions, and development partners.
In a statement at the end of the visit, Ms. Teferra said the team had made progress in reviewing Kenya’s macroeconomic and financial developments while initiating discussions on a comprehensive reform agenda.
“The IMF staff team made progress in taking stock of the latest macroeconomic and financial sector developments, assessing the economic outlook, and holding initial discussions with the Kenyan authorities and other stakeholders on a reform agenda that could pave the way for an IMF-supported programme,” she said.
Ms. Teferra outlined key policy priorities under discussion, including enhancing fiscal credibility, ensuring debt sustainability, managing financial and external sector risks, and strengthening governance, transparency, and efficiency in the public sector.
She added that the team will return to Washington, D.C. to continue technical work ahead of further discussions during the upcoming IMF Annual Meetings.
“We welcome the Kenyan authorities’ candid engagement and remain steadfast in our commitment to partnering with Kenya to secure a more robust, sustainable, and inclusive economic future for all Kenyans,” Ms. Teferra said, expressing appreciation for the government’s cooperation and the constructive dialogue held throughout the mission.
The IMF’s engagement with Kenya comes as the country continues efforts to stabilise its economy, manage debt obligations, and stimulate growth amid global and domestic fiscal challenges.
