Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called on Kenya to strengthen local industries, mobilise domestic capital and ensure the country’s natural resources benefit its citizens, warning against an economic model that relies on exporting raw materials and importing finished products.
Kalonzo made the remarks during a two-day visit to London, United Kingdom, where he held discussions with policymakers, investors, diplomats and development partners on Kenya’s economic future and development priorities.
In a statement, the former Vice President said Kenya must prioritise value addition, manufacturing and industrial growth to create jobs and increase the benefits ordinary citizens derive from the country’s resources.
Addressing a session at the House of Commons, Kalonzo argued that exporting unprocessed materials while importing finished goods would limit Kenya’s ability to achieve sustainable economic prosperity.
“Kenya must process, manufacture and add value in Kenya. Kenya’s wealth must also, first and foremost, enrich our farmers, our manufacturers, our entrepreneurs and our young people,” he said.
He maintained that Kenya was not seeking external rescue but wanted to establish partnerships that support locally driven development while protecting national interests.
Kalonzo said foreign investors were welcome, but their involvement should not undermine Kenya’s control over its resources, strategic assets and economic decisions.
“We welcome investors, but investment is not extraction, and partnership is not patronage. Our resources, our strategic assets and our economic decisions must serve the Kenyan people, always,” he stated.
The Wiper leader subsequently presented his economic and governance agenda at Chatham House, a London-based international affairs think tank, under the theme Kenya at a Cusp: Rescue, Restore, Renew.
The agenda, which he described as the Komboa Kenya roadmap, focuses on economic recovery, job creation, restoring constitutionalism, fighting corruption and rebuilding public confidence in state institutions.
Kalonzo also challenged Kenyans to take a leading role in financing national development, arguing that the country could rely more on its own savings and capital to expand industries and stimulate economic growth.
He said international partners should complement Kenya’s development efforts rather than determine the country’s economic direction.
“Kenya does not lack wealth, talent or potential. What we have lacked is leadership that puts them to work for the people,” Kalonzo said.
His London engagements come as Kenya continues to grapple with economic pressures, unemployment and calls for stronger accountability in public institutions.
The opposition leader concluded by expressing confidence in Kenya’s economic prospects, urging citizens to unite behind efforts to rebuild the country through his Komboa Kenya agenda.