NAIROBI, Kenya– Kenya is accelerating its pivot to private sector-led infrastructure development as the government operationalizes the National Infrastructure Fund, a vehicle designed to attract institutional investment for highways, railways, and other public projects.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi oversaw the fund’s activation following parliamentary approval and President Ruto’s assent. The government argues that with national debt standing at Sh11 trillion, public-private partnerships (PPPs) are essential to maintain infrastructure development without overburdening state finances.
Critics, including opposition figures and civil society advocates, have warned that reliance on private investment could increase costs for citizens through tolls and service fees.
“Privatizing development is a double-edged sword. While it eases the debt burden, ordinary Kenyans may ultimately pay more for basic services,” said economist Dr. Peter Kimani.
Supporters argue that the fund will inject efficiency, transparency, and innovation into large-scale projects, potentially positioning Kenya as a regional model for hybrid financing approaches.
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