Kenya’s gross domestic product expanded by 5.1% in the second quarter of 2026, up from a 4.9% rise in the same period a year earlier, according to the Central Bank of Kenya’s weekly bulletin released on 23 October.

The services sector was the main engine of growth, accelerating to a 5.8% expansion in Q2 2026 from 5.5% in Q2 2025.

Within services, transport and storage showed notable gains, reflecting higher movement of goods and people across the country.

Growth in information and communication points to continued uptake of digital services, while finance and insurance also posted gains, indicating broader access to formal financial products.

Improvements in electricity and water supply were recorded, signalling progress in infrastructure that benefits both households and productive industries.

The accommodation and food services segment rebounded, suggesting renewed consumer spending and a gradual recovery in tourism and hospitality.

Conversely, agriculture’s growth slowed to 3.5% in Q2 2026, down from 4% a year earlier, raising concerns for food prices and rural incomes.

The industry sector also decelerated, posting 4.4% growth versus 4.6% in the comparable quarter of 2025, highlighting a slowdown in manufacturing and construction activity.

Kenya’s economy, valued at $151.15 billion, remains the largest in the East African Community, underscoring its regional significance despite uneven sectoral performance.