“Social Media Activism is Ineffective in Building Kenya,” Industry PS Juma Mukhwana Lashes Out at Netizens’ Rants

Industry Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana has condemned social media activism as ineffective in addressing the country’s economic challenges.

“You might rant all you want online about the state of the Kenyan economy, but as long as you are not buying locally made products, your views will not amount to much,” Mukhwana declared during World Metrology Day celebrations in Nairobi yesterday.

The PS’s comments come as Kenya’s manufacturing sector faces a troubling 7.3% decline in the value of goods produced since 2022, despite the sector’s potential for job creation and economic transformation.

Mukhwana didn’t mince words when addressing digital activists, suggesting their keyboard warfare does nothing to stem the tide of expensive imports that drain Kenya’s economy.

“We have done well in the digital space. But if all we do is spend some money and import goods, we’re lying to ourselves on that discussion about the cost of living,” he stated.

The government official highlighted shocking figures showing Kenyans spent $8.27 trillion importing products in 2024, many of which could have been locally manufactured.

He emphasized that Kenya’s path to prosperity lies in developing its manufacturing capabilities, which would create jobs, reduce import dependency, and ultimately lower the cost of living.

“I see us on social media very active, talking about the cost of living. How do you discuss it when you import everything?” Mukhwana questioned, challenging citizens to reconsider their consumption habits.

Mukhwana’s statements reflect growing frustration within government circles about the disconnect between online activism and tangible economic participation.

With the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP declining dramatically, officials are increasingly pointing to consumer behavior as a critical factor.