Justina Wamae lists 5 indicators in response to Ruto’s first-world country dream

Former Roots Party presidential running mate Justina Wamae on Monday, October 20, 2025, used her Mashujaa Day message to reflect on Kenya’s economic position and progress.
In her post on X, she outlined five key indicators that define whether a country is classified as First World, Second World, or Third World. Wamae said the factors include Gross Domestic Product (GDP), GDP per capita, inflation rate, foreign exchange reserves, and the national debt ratio.

“As Mashujaa Day comes to an end, the following are indicators used to categorize a country as First world, Second or Third world: 1. GDP 2. GDP per capita 3. Inflation 4. Gold FX reserves 5. Debt,” she stated.
Also watch: Ruto on Kenya being a first world country
Honest reflection on Kenya’s progress
Wamae explained that these factors are important in understanding how a nation’s economy performs both locally and globally. She said that while Kenya continues to make strides in several areas, there is a need for the government and citizens to assess whether progress on paper matches the situation experienced by ordinary people.
She concluded her message with a thought-provoking question, “Ground inasema nini?”, hinting at a possible disconnect between economic reports and the realities many Kenyans face. Her remarks come at a time when discussions around the economy, job creation, and cost of living have been at the centre of national debate.
Also watch: Kenyans divided over Ruto`s ambitious 2055 first-world plan
The Mashujaa Day reflections by Wamae also come shortly after national celebrations led by President William Ruto in Kitui, where he praised the country’s resilience and ongoing reforms aimed at economic recovery.
Wamae’s post added a different perspective, focusing on the need for Kenyans to look beyond official numbers and examine whether development is reaching all corners of society.
Over the years, Wamae has been vocal about issues of governance, youth empowerment, and economic inclusion. Her Mashujaa Day message appeared to urge Kenyans to think deeply about what defines national success and how heroes of today can help bridge the gap between economic statistics and daily realities.
Her statement reflected a growing call for honest assessment of Kenya’s economic future, especially as the country continues to face challenges related to unemployment, inflation, and public debt.









