Kenya must embrace diversity to achieve real national prosperity

Kenya has had exactly five presidents, all from two ethnicities. This is a fact, but an unorthodox way to start an article, but I am afraid I must start here.

I have watched the reaction to the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with much attention and reflection. Ethnic supremacy and inequality are two powerful forces that have shaped Kenya’s political and economic landscape since independence.

With over 40 tribes, Kenya has been grappling with how to balance power and resources equitably. For 20 years until 2022, Kenya has experienced a concentration of power and resources in Central Kenya, a region that produced two consecutive presidents: Mwai Kibaki (2002-2013) and Uhuru Kenyatta (2013-2022).

For many this meant inequitable distribution of resources and systemic ethnic favouritism during their tenures exacerbating regional and ethnic disparities. This is not just my view. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta spoke of this, asking whether there are only two tribes that can lead Kenya.

Kibaki’s flagship infrastructure project was the Thika superhighway, a useful road no doubt, but a central Kenya-focused road regardless. In fact, I opined during the handshake times how Mt Kenya MPs were most angry at Uhuru yet central Kenya had the best roads.

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The dominance of central Kenya’s political and economic elitism, perceived or real, has entrenched ethnic hierarchies, and perpetuated feelings of marginalisation in regions that have historically been underrepresented.

The challenge for Kenya is not just addressing the imbalances of the past but deconstructing the deeply ingrained ethnic patronage system that rewards political loyalty with development projects, public sector jobs, and access to state resources. This system institutionalises inequality and leaves lasting scars on the social fabric of the nation. These scars are what we saw in the tribeless demonstrations of Gen Z.

Kenya can learn from South Africa’s post-apartheid experience, particularly in addressing economic and political inequalities that remain entrenched even after the end of apartheid. In Kenya, a similar initiative that confronts historical injustices is necessary. Ethnic favouritism in resource allocation must be addressed through truth-telling and transparency in governance. Additionally, affirmative action policies that ensure equitable access to education, health care, and economic opportunities for historically marginalised regions can help to level the playing field.

The land question in South Africa also offers a crucial lesson for Kenya. South Africa’s land redistribution programme, though imperfect, was designed to address historical land dispossession, a key driver of inequality.

In Kenya, historical land injustices, especially in regions like the Rift Valley, Nairobi and the Coast, continue to fuel ethnic tensions and political instability. Land reforms that address these issues can contribute to a more equitable distribution of resources and a more harmonious coexistence among ethnic groups.

In Kenya, legal reforms that promote inclusivity and equal distribution of resources are critical to dismantling ethnic supremacy. The 2010 Constitution tried to address some of these issues by creating a devolved system of government, which gave more power to the counties.

However, devolution has not been fully realised, partly due to devolved corruption and the national government still wields significant influence over resource allocation.

Kenya’s political elite must commit to strengthening devolution to ensure marginalised regions have the power and resources to govern themselves effectively. Additionally, Kenya must adopt legal frameworks that promote transparency in public resource distribution, curb corruption, and ensure accountability in public service delivery.

For Kenya to move forward, political leadership must transcend ethnic lines, and governance must be grounded in fairness and equity. The future of Kenya lies in its ability to embrace its diversity, promote inclusivity, and ensure that no region or ethnic group is left behind in the quest for national development.