Kenya fact sheet
An overview of Kenya's development context shaping SNV and partners’ collaboration with national and local governments toward fostering inclusive, climate-resilient, and well-governed systems.
Abstract
Agriculture is central to the economy of Kenya, contributing about 20% to the country’s GDP and providing employment to over 40% of the total population. The energy sector is undergoing rapid development, focusing on affordable and reliable renewable energy sources, and attracting private investment for off-grid or grid-connected systems. Water is a key resilience multiplier that requires cross-sectoral planning for effective resource management and distribution.
However, climate change poses many challenges. In 2022, large swaths of the country saw rainfall plunge to 30–50% below average levels. Drought-like conditions prevailed in several regions between 2020-2023, leaving 4.4 million people acutely food insecure. Additionally, social and economic inequalities persist, particularly affecting women, youth, and people with disabilities.
Since 1967, SNV has supported development progress at both national and county levels, working with government institutions, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and communities to co-create inclusive, efficient, and effective locally led service delivery systems. Grounded in partnerships and collaboration, SNV programmes balance the regenerative capacity of natural resources and their productive use. This sustains the needs of communities while expanding access to income-generating activities and livelihoods. All such efforts are aimed at ultimately contributing to a future for Kenya where social norms and values facilitate inclusive development and opportunities for everybody.
For more information
Visit the Kenya country page