Kenya faces significant economic challenges due to tough US tariffs under President Donald Trump’s trade policies.
An estimated 180,000 jobs are at risk, with 54,000 potentially lost in NGOs and the health sector alone.
Kenya’s exports to the US, valued at $100 million (Sh12.96 billion), could be heavily affected, especially with the 10% tariff on Kenyan goods.
Key exports include textiles, coffee, tea, and macadamia nuts. In 2024, Kenya exported goods worth $737.3 million (Sh95.5 billion) to the US but imported even more — $782.5 million (Sh101.4 billion) — leaving a trade deficit of $45.2 million (Sh5.86 billion).
The looming end of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in September 2025 could further worsen trade and job prospects for Kenyans.
