Nairobi: Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has announced that the government’s Sh350 billion National Infrastructure Fund is projected to catalyze up to Sh3.5 trillion in additional investment through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), aiming to expedite the development of essential infrastructure nationwide.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Deputy President disclosed that the fund, with its seed capital maintained at the Central Bank of Kenya, will allocate resources to finalize stalled projects and bolster the expansion of roads, water systems, railways, and other infrastructure. Speaking at an Interdenominational Sunday Worship Service at Kipsamoo Primary School in Kapseret Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County, Kindiki emphasized the government’s strategy to utilize the fund as seed capital to attract private investment. He stated that every Sh1 from the National Infrastructure Fund is anticipated to leverage Sh10 from private investors, amounting to a potential Sh3.5 trillion in investments.
The Deputy President elaborated that the initiative is designed to transform Kenya’s infrastructure landscape and complete long-unfinished projects. Kindiki highlighted ongoing major projects, including the expansion of the railway network, road construction, and the development of a new airport in Nairobi. He specifically mentioned the Isiolo-Mandera Road, which is over 60 percent complete, as a crucial milestone in opening up the North Eastern region for improved movement of people and goods.
In healthcare, Kindiki outlined reforms under the Social Health Authority (SHA) that have increased the number of Kenyans covered by medical insurance from eight million under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to 32 million. He also noted the government’s efforts to enhance cancer treatment coverage and introduce emergency ambulance services. Furthermore, the construction of a new Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, equipped with more than 4,000 beds upon completion, is underway.
Addressing agricultural issues, the Deputy President mentioned the government’s initiatives to reduce the price of fertilizer and certified seeds, aiming to lower production costs and support farmers. In education, Kindiki reported the employment of 120,000 teachers since 2022 and the recruitment of instructors for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. He also highlighted the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme, which has provided grants to over 122,000 young people.
Kindiki also discussed investments in sports infrastructure, such as the construction of the 60,000-seater Talanta Sports City in Nairobi and 33 other stadiums countrywide. On security, he praised Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen for efforts to restore peace in the Kerio Valley.
Turning to politics, Kindiki urged leaders aspiring to unseat President William Ruto in the upcoming election to present clear policy alternatives rather than relying on ethnic politics and slogans. He emphasized the need for political competition based on development records and policies. Kindiki called for peaceful political competition, urging politicians to respect the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and maintain national cohesion and security.
The event was attended by several notable leaders, including Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, various governors and principal secretaries, as well as members of parliament and the clergy.
