History of Kenya in Timeline
Kenya, located in East Africa, boasts a population of over 47.6 million, making it a prominent nation on the continent. Nairobi serves as its capital, while Mombasa holds historical significance as a former capital and a major port city. Kenya's diverse geography encompasses snow-capped mountains, fertile agricultural lands, temperate climates, and arid regions, contributing to its rich natural landscape.
1900: Nandi Resistance and Railway Construction
The Nandi people, under the leadership of Orkoiyot Koitalel Arap Samoei, resisted the construction of a railway line from 1890 to 1900. The British ultimately succeeded in building the railway.
1918: Lettow-Vorbeck's Surrender
In 1918, German military commander Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck surrendered in Northern Rhodesia (present-day Zambia) after waging a successful guerilla campaign during World War I.
1920: Birth of the Colony of Kenya
In 1920, the British East Africa Protectorate transitioned into a colony and was renamed Kenya, deriving its name from Mount Kenya, the country's highest peak.
1920: Official Renaming of Kenya
In 1920, the name "Kenya," inspired by Mount Kenya, was officially adopted, replacing previous designations like the East Africa Protectorate.
1920: Establishment of Kenya Colony
The year 1920 marked the transformation of the East Africa Protectorate into a colony officially named Kenya.
1937: Publication of "Out of Africa"
Danish author Karen von Blixen-Finecke's memoir, "Out of Africa," published in 1937, offered a glimpse into the life of European settlers in Kenya during the early 20th century.
1940: Italian Invasion during World War II
During World War II, Kenya became a battleground as Italian forces launched an invasion in 1940-1941. Wajir and Malindi experienced bombings during this period.
October 1952: State of Emergency Declared
October 1952 marked the beginning of a state of emergency in Kenya due to the Mau Mau uprising against British rule.
1952: Mau Mau Uprising
The Mau Mau rebellion, initiated in 1952, marked a period of resistance against British rule in Kenya.
May 1953: Erskine Assumes Command
General Sir George Erskine took command of the colony's armed forces in May 1953, with support from Winston Churchill, to lead counter-insurgency efforts.
1953: Safari Rally Inauguration
The first Safari Rally, renowned for its challenging nature and later becoming a part of the World Rally Championship, was held in 1953.
January 1954: Capture of "General China"
The capture and interrogation of Waruhiu Itote, known as "General China," in January 1954 provided British forces with insights into the Mau Mau's command structure.
April 1954: Operation Anvil Launched
Operation Anvil, commencing on April 24, 1954, effectively placed Nairobi under military siege, with screenings and detentions targeting suspected Mau Mau supporters.
October 1956: Capture of Dedan Kimathi
Dedan Kimathi's apprehension in Nyeri in October 1956 signaled a turning point, essentially ending the Mau Mau's military offensive and leading to significant changes in land ownership.
1957: First Direct Elections
Kenya held its inaugural direct elections in 1957, allowing native Kenyans to participate in the Legislative Council.
December 1959: End of the State of Emergency
The state of emergency in Kenya, prompted by the Mau Mau rebellion, concluded in December 1959.
1962: Kenyan Somalis and Independence
In 1962, as Kenya approached independence, Somali communities residing in the Northern Frontier Districts petitioned the British government to avoid being incorporated into Kenya, leading to the country's first referendum to gauge their willingness to join Somalia.
December 1963: Independence of Kenya
In December 1963, Kenya gained independence from British rule. The Colony and Protectorate of Kenya were merged, and Jomo Kenyatta's Kenya African National Union (KANU) formed the new government.
1963: Land Acquisition and Corruption Concerns
After Kenya's independence in 1963, concerns arose regarding widespread corruption within the government and Kenyatta's family acquiring large amounts of property, particularly in the Central, Rift Valley, and Coast Provinces.
1963: Kenyan Independence
Kenya attained independence in 1963, signifying the end of British colonial rule.
1963: Continued Relevance of the Independence Constitution
The 1963 independence constitution remained in effect as of 2005, highlighting its enduring significance in shaping Kenya's governance despite calls for reform.
December 1964: Jomo Kenyatta's Presidency
Following Kenya's transition to a republic in December 1964, Jomo Kenyatta became the country's first president.
December 1964: Establishment of the Republic of Kenya
On December 12, 1964, Kenya transitioned into a republic named the "Republic of Kenya". Jomo Kenyatta assumed the role of the country's first president.
1964: Kenya at the Summer Olympics
Kenya's field hockey team secured the 6th position at the 1964 Summer Olympics hockey tournament.
October 1967: Arusha Memorandum
A ceasefire agreement, known as the Arusha Memorandum, was signed in October 1967, aiming to end the Shifta War between the Kenyan army and Somali rebels in the Northern Frontier District.
1969: Kenya's Census Records 42 Ethnic Categories
In 1969, Kenya's census recorded 42 ethnic categories, providing a snapshot of the country's diverse population at the time.
1969: Banning of Opposition and Dissent
In 1969, following the Kisumu Massacre, Kenyatta's government banned the opposition party, Kenya People's Union (KPU), along with other groups like the Kenya Students Union and Jehovah Witnesses, suppressing dissent.
1969: Kenya-Ethiopia Defence Pact
To strengthen security and deter future conflicts, Kenya entered into a defence pact with Ethiopia in 1969, which remains in effect to this day.
1971: Kenya's Success at Men's FIH Hockey World Cup
Kenya's prowess in field hockey was evident when they attained 4th place in the 1971 Men's FIH Hockey World Cup.
December 1973: Ten Years of Kenyan Independence
The 10th anniversary of Kenya's independence in December 1973 brought both praise for its economic growth and criticism from Amnesty International for human rights concerns under Kenyatta's rule.
August 1978: Death of Jomo Kenyatta
Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first president, passed away in August 1978.
1979: Unopposed Election of Daniel arap Moi
Daniel arap Moi, who assumed the presidency after Kenyatta's death, won unopposed in the 1979 elections held under a single-party system.
1980: Garissa Massacre
The Garissa Massacre, a tragic event in 1980, resulted in the loss of many lives.
August 1982: Attempted Military Coup
An unsuccessful military coup, led by Senior Private Hezekiah Ochuka, took place in August 1982 during Daniel arap Moi's presidency but was swiftly put down by government forces.
1982: Suppression of the Coup Attempt
In 1982, a coup attempt primarily orchestrated by lower-ranking Air Force personnel was successfully thwarted by government forces, including the General Service Unit (GSU) and regular police, led by Chief of General Staff Mahamoud Mohamed.
1983: Snap Elections Amidst Political Tension
Snap elections were held in 1983, a year earlier than scheduled, prompted by the attempted coup in 1982, with Moi again running unopposed.
1984: Wagalla Massacre
In 1984, the Wagalla Massacre, a horrific incident involving Kenyan troops, led to the deaths of thousands of civilians in Wajir County. An official investigation into this event was initiated in 2011.
1984: Turkana Boy Discovery
Paleoanthropologist Richard Leakey, aided by Kamoya Kimeu, unearthed the Turkana Boy, a 1.6-million-year-old Homo erectus fossil, at Lake Turkana in 1984.
1988: Unopposed Election for a Third Term
Moi maintained his grip on power by winning another unopposed election in 1988, the third under his leadership and within a single-party framework.
1988: Introduction of the "Mlolongo" System
The 1988 elections in Kenya saw the introduction of the controversial "mlolongo" (queuing) system, where voters lined up behind their preferred candidates instead of casting secret ballots. This method, widely criticized as undemocratic, fueled calls for constitutional reforms, particularly the end of single-party rule.
1990: Life Expectancy Benchmark
The year 1990 serves as a reference point for comparing Kenya's life expectancy, which was notably higher than in 2009.
1991: Transition to Multiparty Politics
In 1991, Kenya transitioned from a single-party system to multiparty politics after 26 years of KANU rule, a significant political development.
October 1992: Dissolution of Parliament
In October 1992, five months before the scheduled end of his term, President Moi dissolved parliament, paving the way for elections for all parliamentary seats and the presidency.
December 1992: Multiparty Elections and Economic Crisis
Kenya's December 1992 elections, the first multiparty elections in over two decades, were marred by violence, accusations of rigging against Moi, and an ensuing economic crisis, signaling a potential shift in Kenyan politics.
1992: The Dawn of Multiparty Politics
The year 1992 marked a turning point for Kenya with the introduction of multiparty politics after 25 years of KANU's dominance, leading to political realignments and the formation of new parties.
1993: FIBA Africa Championship in Nairobi
Nairobi played host to the FIBA Africa Championship in 1993, where Kenya's national basketball team achieved their best performance to date, finishing in the top four.
1994: Death of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Formation of United National Democratic Alliance
The death of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga in 1994 led to the formation of the United National Democratic Alliance, a merger of several coalitions with his FORD Kenya party. However, the new party faced internal conflicts.
1995: Formation of Safina Party
Richard Leakey established the Safina party in 1995, but it faced obstacles as its registration was initially denied.
1996: Constitutional Amendment for Moi's Extended Rule
In 1996, KANU amended the constitution, enabling Moi to seek another term as president, further consolidating his hold on power.
1996: Kenya's Debut in Cricket World Cup
Kenya made its first appearance in the Cricket World Cup in 1996, marking the beginning of its journey in international cricket.
November 1997: Safina Party Granted Registration
Richard Leakey's Safina party, initially denied registration in 1995, was finally granted registration in November 1997.
1997: Constitution of Kenya Review Act
Following the 1997 general elections, the Kenyan Parliament enacted the Constitution of Kenya Review Act. This legislation aimed to pave the way for more comprehensive amendments to the existing constitution.
1997: Moi's Fifth Term and Criticism of Fraud
Moi secured his fifth presidential term in the 1997 elections, a victory that drew sharp criticism and allegations of fraud from prominent opposition figures like Kibaki and Odinga.
1997: Establishment of Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen)
The state-owned Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) was established in 1997, initially under the name of Kenya Power Company, to oversee electricity generation in the country.
1998: Moi's Succession Plan
Despite being constitutionally barred from running for president again after 1997, Moi began strategizing in 1998 to influence the succession, aiming to install Uhuru Kenyatta as president in the 2002 elections.
2000: African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Implementation
In 2000, Kenya was included as a beneficiary of the US Government's African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which aimed to stimulate economic growth in African countries.
2001: Increase in Kenya's Installed Electricity Capacity
Between 2001 and 2003, Kenya's installed electricity capacity saw an increase, marking the beginning of a period of growth in the country's power sector.
2001: Consolidation in Kenya's Banking Sector
The number of commercial banks operating in Kenya decreased from 48 in 2001 to 43 by late July 2004, indicating consolidation within the banking sector.
December 2002: Democratic Elections and Peaceful Transfer of Power
Kenya conducted democratic and transparent elections in December 2002, widely deemed free and fair by international observers. This election marked a pivotal moment in Kenya's democratic development, characterized by a peaceful transition of power from the long-ruling Kenya African National Union (KANU) to the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC), a coalition of political parties.
2002: Failure of Moi's Succession Plan
Moi's plan to have Uhuru Kenyatta succeed him as president in the 2002 elections did not come to fruition.
2002: Safari Rally Excluded from WRC
The Safari Rally faced exclusion from the World Rally Championship after the 2002 event due to financial constraints.
2003: Continued Expansion of Kenya's Electricity Capacity
By 2003, Kenya had further increased its installed electricity capacity, demonstrating ongoing efforts to meet the country's growing energy demands.
2003: Safari Rally Joins African Rally Championship
Following its exclusion from the WRC, the Safari Rally became a part of the African Rally Championship in 2003.
2003: Mwai Kibaki's Victory and a Potential Democratic Turning Point
In 2003, Mwai Kibaki, leading the opposition coalition "National Rainbow Coalition" (NARC), won the presidential election. This election, deemed free and fair by observers, was seen as a significant step towards democratic progress in Kenya.
2003: Kenya's Semi-Final Run in Cricket World Cup
Kenya achieved a historic feat in the 2003 Cricket World Cup by reaching the semi-finals, showcasing its cricketing prowess on the global stage.
2003: "The In-Between World of Vikram Lall" Wins Giller Prize
M.G. Vassanji's novel, "The In-Between World of Vikram Lall," which tells the story of a Kenyan of Indian heritage navigating the political shifts in colonial and post-colonial Kenya, was awarded the prestigious Giller Prize in 2003.
2003: Launch of "Kwani?" Literary Journal
The literary scene in Kenya was enriched in 2003 with the launch of "Kwani?," a journal dedicated to publishing contemporary Kenyan literature.
July 2004: Structure of Kenya's Financial System
By late July 2004, Kenya's financial system comprised 43 commercial banks (reduced from 48 in 2001) and several non-bank financial institutions, including mortgage companies, savings and loan associations, and foreign-exchange bureaus, all overseen by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
2004: Drought Impacts Food Production
Kenya experienced one of its recurring droughts in 2004, leading to a decline in food production and necessitating food aid.
2005: Poverty Rate in Kenya
In 2005, 17.7% of Kenyans lived on less than $1.25 per day, highlighting a significant poverty issue in the country.
2005: Contribution of Agriculture to Kenya's Economy
In 2005, agriculture played a significant role in Kenya's economy, contributing 24% to the GDP, employing 18% of the workforce, and generating 50% of export revenue.
2005: Rejection of Constitutional Reform
Kenyans rejected a proposed new constitution in 2005, leading to the 2007 elections being conducted under the existing 1963 independence constitution.
2006: Kenyan Clothing Exports Surge Under AGOA
By 2006, Kenya's clothing sales to the United States had significantly increased from US$44 million to US$270 million as a result of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
2006: Estimated Malaria Cases
Kenya reported an estimated 15 million cases of malaria in 2006, highlighting the significant burden of this preventable disease.
2006: Kenya Sevens Team Ranking
The Kenya Sevens rugby team achieved a ranking of 9th in the IRB Sevens World Series for the 2006 season, demonstrating its growing presence in the sport.
December 2007: Post-Election Violence and KDF Response
After the December 2007 elections, violence broke out in Kenya. The Waki Commission praised the Kenya Defence Forces for their response to the situation.
December 2007: Disputed Election Disrupts Economic Growth
Kenya's economy was experiencing significant growth until the disputed presidential election of December 2007, after which chaos and violence negatively impacted the country's economic stability.
2007: Post-Election Violence and ICC Trials
Following the disputed presidential election in 2007, violence erupted in Kenya. This led to the International Criminal Court scheduling trials for President Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto in 2013.
2007: Kenya Unveils Vision 2030 Economic Development Programme
In 2007, the Kenyan government launched Vision 2030, an ambitious economic development program with the goal of propelling the country to the same level as the Asian Economic Tigers by 2030.
2007: Government Announcement on Secondary Education Subsidies
In 2007, the Kenyan government made a policy announcement to significantly subsidize secondary education starting in 2008. The government pledged to cover all tuition fees, aiming to enhance access to education.
2007: Launch of M-Pesa Mobile Banking Service in Kenya
In 2007, the innovative mobile banking service M-Pesa was launched in Kenya by Vodafone and Safaricom, providing millions of Kenyans with access to financial services through their mobile devices.
2007: Disputed Election and Post-Election Violence
The 2007 elections, marked by political and ethnic clashes, saw Mwai Kibaki's reelection amidst accusations of rigging from Raila Odinga. The ensuing violence, resulting in 1,500 deaths and widespread displacement, led to a power-sharing agreement with Odinga becoming Prime Minister, a position previously held only once in Kenya's history.
November 2008: WikiLeaks Exposes Extrajudicial Killings
In November 2008, WikiLeaks published "The Cry of Blood" report, drawing international attention to the extrajudicial killings of alleged gangsters by the Kenyan police. The report, authored by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), suggested that these killings were potentially a state-sanctioned policy.
2008: Total Fertility Rate and Contraception Usage Survey
A survey conducted by the Kenyan government between 2008 and 2009 revealed a total fertility rate of 4.6% and a contraception usage rate of 46% among married women.
2008: Implementation of Secondary Education Subsidies
As declared in 2007, the Kenyan government began heavily subsidizing secondary education in 2008, covering all tuition fees to improve educational opportunities.
2008: Kenya's Success at the Beijing Olympics
Kenya emerged as Africa's top-performing nation at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, securing six gold, four silver, and four bronze medals, with notable wins by athletes like Pamela Jelimo and Samuel Wanjiru.
2008: Impact of Climate Change on Rainfall Patterns
Kenya experienced a significant drought in 2008-2009 due to the changing patterns of rainfall. These changes, attributed to climate change, have disrupted the country's traditional long and short rain seasons.
2009: Estimated HIV/AIDS Prevalence
In 2009, the estimated HIV/AIDS prevalence in Kenya was about 6.3% of the adult population.
2009: Life Expectancy Drop
Kenya experienced a decline in estimated life expectancy to approximately 55 years in 2009, marking a five-year decrease from the 1990 level.
July 2010: Formation of the East African Common Market
In July 2010, Kenya joined forces with other East African nations to establish the East African Common Market as part of the East African Community.
August 2010: Passage of a New Constitution
In August 2010, Kenya held a referendum that resulted in the adoption of a new constitution. This constitution introduced limits on presidential powers and implemented a devolution of authority from the central government.
2010: New Constitution Adopted
Kenya adopted a new constitution in 2010, replacing the independence constitution of 1963.
2010: Passage of the 2010 Constitution
Kenya's 2010 constitution marked a turning point by limiting presidential powers and devolving authority from the central government.
2010: Constitutional Definition of Youth
The Kenyan Constitution of 2010 defines youth as individuals between 18 and 34 years old, providing a legal framework for youth-related policies.
May 2011: Positive Economic Outlook for Kenya
As of May 2011, Kenya's economic prospects appeared positive, with anticipated GDP growth of 4-5% driven by growth in sectors like tourism, telecommunications, transport, construction, and a resurgence in agriculture.
September 2011: Food Waste and the Kenyans for Kenya Initiative
In August and September 2011, Kenya experienced a situation where farmers were unable to transport their produce to markets due to infrastructural challenges, leading to food waste. This prompted the Red Cross to initiate the "Kenyans for Kenya" initiative to address the issue.
2011: Official Probe into Wagalla Massacre
In 2011, an official investigation was ordered to examine the Wagalla Massacre of 1984, a brutal event where Kenyan troops killed a significant number of civilians in Wajir County.
2011: Skilled Birth Attendance Estimate
In 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that only 42% of births in Kenya were attended by a skilled health professional, highlighting a need for improved maternal healthcare access.
2011: Kenyan Troop Deployment to Somalia and Severe Drought
Kenya deployed troops to Somalia in 2011 to combat the terrorist organization Al-Shabaab. The same year, the country experienced a severe drought, the worst in East Africa in six decades, due to two consecutive failed rainy seasons. The Turkana region was particularly devastated, leading to school closures. However, by early 2012, the crisis was largely contained thanks to collaborative relief efforts.
2011: Kenya's Participation in ICC Cricket World Cup
Kenya participated in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, further solidifying its presence in international cricket.
2011: Ban on Female Genital Mutilation
Kenya took a significant step towards protecting women's rights by officially banning female genital mutilation in 2011.
2011: UNAIDS Report on HIV/AIDS in Kenya
The 2011 UNAIDS Report suggested potential improvement in Kenya's HIV epidemic, with declining prevalence among young people (15-24 years old) and pregnant women.
March 2012: Discovery of Oil Deposits in Turkana County, Kenya
On March 26, 2012, President Mwai Kibaki announced the discovery of oil deposits in Turkana County, Kenya, by Tullow Oil, marking a potential turning point for the country's energy sector.
2012: Shift from Relief to Recovery Efforts
Following the drought's containment in 2012, aid organizations shifted their focus from relief to recovery initiatives. These included projects like digging irrigation canals and distributing plant seeds to bolster agricultural resilience.
2012: China Becomes Kenya's Largest Source of Foreign Direct Investment
In 2012, Chinese investment in Kenya reached $474 million, making China the largest foreign direct investor in the country, as bilateral trade between the two nations reached $2.84 billion.
2012: High Infant Mortality Rate
Kenya recorded a high infant mortality rate of approximately 44 deaths per 1,000 children in 2012, indicating significant challenges in child health.
2012: World Bank's Growth Projection for Kenya
The World Bank projected Kenya's economy to grow by 4.3% in 2012.
2012: Total Fertility Rate Estimate
The total fertility rate in Kenya was estimated at 4.49 children per woman in 2012, indicating a relatively high fertility level.
March 2013: Kenya Launches National Climate Change Action Plan
In March 2013, Kenya launched its National Climate Change Action Plan, recognizing the importance of addressing climate change in its development agenda. The plan outlined a vision for low-carbon, climate-resilient development.
March 2013: Uhuru Kenyatta Elected President
In March 2013, Uhuru Kenyatta, running for office under the new constitution and with President Kibaki ineligible for a third term due to term limits, won the presidential election with 50.51% of the vote.
2013: Kenyan President Seeks Chinese Investment During Beijing Visit
In 2013, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, accompanied by Kenyan business delegates, visited Beijing to secure Chinese support for infrastructure projects, including a railway and a dam.
2013: Kenyatta's International Relations
In 2013, US president Barack Obama decided not to visit Kenya during his African trip due to the ICC trials of President Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto. Subsequently, Kenyatta visited China and Russia.
2013: First General Elections Under the New Constitution and Kenyatta's First Term
Kenya held its first general elections under the new constitution in 2013, following the end of Kibaki's tenure. Uhuru Kenyatta emerged victorious in a contested election, prompting a petition from opposition leader Raila Odinga. Despite the challenge, the Supreme Court upheld the election results, and Kenyatta assumed office with William Ruto as his deputy president.
December 2014: Security Laws Amendment Bill
In December 2014, President Kenyatta enacted the Security Laws Amendment Bill, a piece of legislation that sparked controversy. While proponents argued its necessity in countering armed groups, opposition figures, human rights organizations, and nine Western countries expressed concerns, asserting that it infringed upon democratic freedoms. Governments, including those of the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, jointly cautioned against the law's potential repercussions. Despite the criticism, the Bill was passed in the National Assembly on December 19th through the Jubilee Coalition amidst contentious circumstances.
2014: Base Titanium's First Mineral Shipment to China and Railway Project Suspension
In 2014, Base Titanium, a subsidiary of Base Resources of Australia, made its first major shipment of ilmenite from Kenya to China, estimated to generate substantial earnings for Kenya. However, a Chinese-contracted railway project from Nairobi to Mombasa was suspended due to a land compensation dispute.
2014: Scheme of Service for Nursing Personnel
The Scheme of Service for Nursing Personnel was established in 2014, outlining the absorption and deployment of nurses, the largest group of front-line healthcare providers, within the Kenyan government service.
July 2015: Obama Visits Kenya
In July 2015, Barack Obama became the first sitting US president to visit Kenya.
2015: Kenyatta's Stance on Gay Rights
During a press conference with President Barack Obama in 2015, President Kenyatta stated that gay rights were a "non-issue" and highlighted the differences in cultural acceptance between Kenya and other nations.
2015: Poverty Rate in Kenya
During the 2015-2016 period, 35.6% of Kenyans lived below the poverty line, underscoring the link between poverty and the prevalence of preventable diseases.
2016: Kenya Ranked 113th in Ease of Doing Business
In 2016, Kenya held the 113th position in the World Bank's ease of doing business ranking.
2016: Kenya Wins Singapore Sevens Finals
In a historic victory at the Singapore Sevens finals in 2016, Kenya defeated Fiji, becoming the second African nation after South Africa to win a World Series championship in rugby sevens.
2016: Kenya's Installed Electricity Capacity Reaches 2,341 MW
Kenya's installed electricity capacity reached 2,341 MW in 2016, reflecting significant progress in expanding access to electricity across the country.
2016: Revised Scheme of Service for Medical Officers and Dental Officers
The Kenyan government implemented the Revised Scheme of Service for Medical Officers and Dental Officers in 2016, outlining the process for incorporating these professionals into government service.
January 2017: Kenya's Population Reaches Approximately 48 Million
In January 2017, Kenya's population reached approximately 48 million, with a significant proportion of the population under the age of 30, highlighting the country's youthful demographics.
2017: Kenya Implements Single-Use Plastic Bag Ban
In 2017, Kenya took a significant step towards environmental protection by banning single-use plastic bags, aiming to reduce plastic waste and its impact on the environment.
2017: Improvement in Ease of Doing Business Ranking
Kenya's ranking in the World Bank's ease of doing business index improved to 92nd in 2017, up from 113th in 2016.
2017: Kenyatta's Second Term and Landmark Supreme Court Ruling
Uhuru Kenyatta secured a second term in 2017, again in a disputed election. Raila Odinga once more challenged the results, alleging electoral mismanagement and rigging by Kenyatta and his party. In a historic decision, the Supreme Court overturned the election outcome, a rare occurrence in Africa and globally. This ruling cemented the court's independence. A second round of presidential elections was held, which Kenyatta won after Odinga declined to participate, citing irregularities.
March 2018: Kenyatta-Odinga Handshake and the "Building Bridges Initiative"
A significant event in March 2018 was the handshake between Kenyatta and his long-time political opponent, Raila Odinga. This gesture symbolized reconciliation and ushered in a period of economic progress and enhanced stability. From 2019 to 2021, Kenyatta and Odinga collaborated to advance substantial amendments to the Kenyan constitution, known as the "Building Bridges Initiative" (BBI). They aimed to foster inclusivity and address the challenges posed by the country's winner-take-all electoral system, often blamed for post-election unrest.
2018: Evidence of Early Modern Behavior
Discoveries made in 2018 unveiled evidence of sophisticated behaviors in early humans around 320,000 years ago, such as long-distance trade networks, pigment use, and potential projectile point creation.
2018: Adult Illiteracy Rate
In 2018, Kenya reported an adult illiteracy rate of 18.5%, representing the highest rate in East Africa and highlighting regional disparities in literacy levels.
2018: Government Establishes Petco Initiative for Waste Management
In 2018, the Kenyan government established the Petco initiative as part of its efforts to improve waste management and promote recycling, particularly for plastic bottles.
2019: Kenya's Population Breakdown by Ethnic Group
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Kenya had a total population of 47,564,296 in 2019, with the Kikuyu, Luhya, Kalenjin, and Luo being the largest native ethnic groups.
2019: Kenya's Census Expands to Over 120 Ethnic Categories
By 2019, the number of ethnic categories and sub-categories recorded in Kenya's census had significantly increased to over 120, reflecting the country's growing recognition of its diverse ethnic makeup.
2019: Building Bridges Initiative (BBI)
From 2019 to 2021, Kenyatta and Odinga collaborated to advance substantial amendments to the Kenyan constitution, known as the "Building Bridges Initiative" (BBI). They aimed to foster inclusivity and address the challenges posed by the country's winner-take-all electoral system, often blamed for post-election unrest.
2019: Kenya Ranks First in Sub-Saharan Africa on Human Capital Index
In 2019, Kenya achieved the highest ranking in sub-Saharan Africa on the World Bank's Human Capital Index (HCI) with a score of 0.52, indicating positive progress in areas such as education and healthcare.
2019: Kenyan Census
In 2019, Kenya conducted a census that revealed a population exceeding 47.6 million people, making it the 28th most populous country globally and the 7th most populous in Africa.
2019: Kenya's Ranking on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index
In 2019, Kenya held the 137th position out of 180 countries on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). With a score of 28 out of 100, the index indicated a perceived presence of public-sector corruption in the nation.
2019: Kenya's Forest Landscape Integrity Index Score
In 2019, Kenya's Forest Landscape Integrity Index yielded an average score of 4.2 out of 10. This ranking placed the country 133rd globally among 172 nations assessed, reflecting the state of its forest landscapes.
2019: Healthcare Allocation in Kenya's National Budget
In the 2019/2020 fiscal year, healthcare in Kenya was allocated 4.8% of the national budget, representing 4.59% of the country's GDP.
2019: Population and Census: Youth Demographics
Results from the 2019 Population and Census revealed that 75% of Kenya's 47.6 million population was under 35, establishing Kenya as a predominantly youthful nation.
2019: Last Safari Rally in ARC before WRC Return
The 2019 Safari Rally marked the last edition held as part of the African Rally Championship before its return to the World Rally Championship.
December 24, 2020: Kenya Submits Updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)
On December 24, 2020, Kenya submitted an updated and more ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), committing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 32% by 2030 compared to the business-as-usual scenario.
2020: Survey on Homosexuality in Kenya
A 2020 Pew Research Center survey revealed that a large majority (83%) of Kenyans believe that homosexuality is unacceptable.
2020: Extension of Single-Use Plastics Ban to Protected Areas
In 2020, Kenya expanded its ban on single-use plastics to include protected areas such as parks and forests, strengthening its commitment to conservation and environmental preservation.
2020: Breakdown of County Health Expenditure
In 2020, the National and County Health Budget Analysis revealed that county health expenditure in Kenya was allocated as follows: 58% to Policy Planning and Administrative Support Services, 28% to Curative and Rehabilitative Health Services, 8% to Preventive and Promotive Health Services, and 7% to Other Programmes.
2020: Healthcare Spending in Kenya Compared to Other Regions
Kenya's healthcare spending in 2019/2020 was below the average for sub-Saharan Africa (4.98%) and significantly lower than the global average (9.83%).
2020: Revised Scheme of Service for Clinical Personnel
The Revised Scheme of Service for Clinical Personnel, implemented in 2020, provides guidelines for the integration and allocation of clinical officers into the Kenyan government health service.
May 2021: High Court Ruling on BBI
In May 2021, the Kenyan High Court delivered a significant ruling, declaring the BBI constitutional reform initiative unconstitutional. The court determined that the initiative lacked genuine popular support and was instead an endeavor driven by the government. President Kenyatta faced criticism for his role in the process, with the court suggesting grounds for potential legal action or even impeachment, although such action by Parliament was considered improbable. The ruling dealt a blow to both Kenyatta, nearing the end of his term, and Odinga, anticipated to run for president, while benefiting Odinga's prospective rival, Ruto.
August 2021: Court of Appeal Upholds BBI Ruling
On August 20, 2021, Kenya's Court of Appeal upheld the High Court's May 2021 judgment, which had been appealed by the BBI Secretariat. This decision reaffirmed the earlier ruling that the BBI constitutional reform process was unconstitutional.
2021: Building Bridges Initiative (BBI)
From 2019 to 2021, Kenyatta and Odinga collaborated to advance substantial amendments to the Kenyan constitution, known as the "Building Bridges Initiative" (BBI). They aimed to foster inclusivity and address the challenges posed by the country's winner-take-all electoral system, often blamed for post-election unrest.
2021: Safari Rally Returns to WRC
Marking a significant comeback, the Safari Rally rejoined the World Rally Championship in 2021 after being part of the African Rally Championship from 2003 to 2019.
August 2022: William Ruto Wins Presidential Election
Deputy President William Ruto emerged victorious in a closely contested presidential election in August 2022, securing 50.5% of the votes. His primary opponent, Raila Odinga, received 48.8% of the votes.
September 2022: William Ruto Sworn in as President
William Ruto was officially sworn in as Kenya's fifth president on September 13, 2022, marking the beginning of his tenure.
2022: Low Foreign Direct Investment in Kenya
Despite its economic size and development level, Kenya had a relatively low foreign direct investment (FDI) stock of US$10.4 billion in 2022, representing only 9.5% of its GDP.
2022: Kenya's Unemployment Rate Estimated at 5.6%
In 2022, Kenya's unemployment rate was estimated to be 5.6%, reflecting the country's economic conditions and labor market dynamics.
July 2023: New Law Mandates Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Impact
A law passed in July 2023 in Kenya made it mandatory for companies to take responsibility for reducing the environmental impact of their products throughout their lifecycle, requiring them to participate in waste collection and recycling initiatives.
2023: Construction of Tax-Free Industrial Parks Begins
In 2023, Kenya initiated the construction of five tax-free industrial parks, indicating the government's efforts to attract investment and boost manufacturing.
2023: Global Innovation Index Ranking
Kenya achieved a ranking of 100th in the Global Innovation Index in 2023.
2027: Kenya Aims for Nuclear Power Plant Construction
As part of its efforts to achieve energy sufficiency, Kenya aims to construct a nuclear power plant by 2027, diversifying its energy sources.
2030: Anticipated Completion of Tax-Free Industrial Parks
Kenya plans to complete the construction of five tax-free industrial parks by 2030, aiming to enhance industrial development and economic growth.
2030: Target Year for Kenya's Vision 2030
Kenya's Vision 2030 sets 2030 as the target year for achieving its ambitious economic development goals, aspiring to elevate the country's status to that of the Asian Economic Tigers.
