How did Kenya’s economy try to diversify beyond agricultural exports after independence?

Following independence in 1963, Kenya initially focused on achieving economic growth by maximizing agricultural exports while simultaneously pursuing import substitution to produce goods domestically.1

To decrease its dependence on volatile agricultural markets, Kenya implemented several diversification strategies, particularly toward the end of the 20th century:

• Export Diversification: The country expanded its export base to include horticultural products, clothing, cement, soda ash, and fluorspar.1
• Manufacturing: The government prioritized the production of manufactured goods, such as paper and vehicles, for both domestic use and export.12
• Service Sector: The service industry has grown significantly and is now the largest contributor to the country's gross domestic product (GDP). Tourism serves as a major source of foreign exchange, leveraging the country's unique wildlife and cultural attractions.13
• Strategic Planning: Since 2008, economic policy has been guided by Vision 2030, which aims to transform Kenya into an industrializing, middle-income nation.1