Kenya is falling behind in the global push to end extreme poverty, with 14,043,800 people currently living below the poverty line. This figure represents 26 percent of the country’s total population of 54.4 million, according to new data released by the United Nations in its 2025 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Report.
How Many Kenyans Are Living in Poverty Today?
The World Bank defines extreme poverty as living on less than $2.15 (about Ksh.288) per day. Based on figures from the World Data Lab, poverty in Kenya is largely concentrated in rural areas, where 86 percent of those affected live. Women make up 51 percent of the population living in poverty, while men account for 49 percent.
Globally, more than 800 million people continue to live in extreme poverty. If stronger action is not taken, the UN estimates that 8.9 percent of the world’s population will still be in poverty by 2030, despite it being the core target of the SDGs.
Where Does Kenya Rank on the SDG Index?
In the 2025 SDG Index, Kenya ranked 123 out of 193 countries with a score of 61.93. While the country showed progress in areas such as Zero Hunger and access to education, the report also revealed worrying undernourishment rates and a downward trend in poverty reduction. Neighboring Rwanda ranked just ahead at 122.
The UN report highlighted that although Kenya has made strides in climate action, renewable energy, and responsible consumption, it continues to face challenges in sustainable cities, peace, justice, and strong institutions. Issues such as corruption, press freedom concerns, and homicide cases remain barriers to progress.
What Did the UN Say About the Way Forward?
“With just five years to reach the Sustainable Development Goals, we need to shift into overdrive,” UN Secretary General António Guterres said during the release of the SDG report.
Kenya has shown significant improvement in access to electricity and education, but without urgent interventions in poverty reduction, hunger, and governance, the country risks falling short of key 2030 development targets.
By Lucky Anyanje