Public Service and Human Capital Development Cabinet Secretary (CS), Geoffrey Ruku, has said the proposed National Infrastructure Fund will play a critical role in accelerating the implementation of roads, water, electricity and sanitation projects countrywide.
Speaking at the Chogoria Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) in Maara sub-county, Tharaka Nithi county, during a farewell party for Rev. Amos Njeru, the CS said once approved, the Fund will unlock financing for large-scale infrastructure projects.
These projects include the expansion of key highways, such as the Makutano–Mwea–Embu–Meru road, which is set to be upgraded into a four-lane highway starting in June this year.
He said members of parliament are expected to debate and pass the National Infrastructure Fund Bill next month.
“These projects will only be possible if Parliament approves this Bill to enable the government to plan and implement critical infrastructure that supports economic growth and service delivery.”
Ruku underscored the importance of water infrastructure, noting that Kenya cannot achieve food security without reliable water and irrigation systems.
“There is no way we can have adequate food if we continue depending on erratic rainfall. Investment in water and irrigation infrastructure is key,” he said, noting that the Fund will strengthen irrigation projects across the country.
On energy, the CS said the infrastructure kitty will support the expansion of electricity connectivity to households, particularly in rural areas, in order to promote industrialisation and improve living standards.
At the same time, Ruku assured Maara residents that the ongoing Chogoria sewerage project would be completed on time to improve public health and ensure environmental protection.
Ruku further revealed that the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) had identified 400 local roads for improvement, noting that President Dr. William Ruto and his Deputy, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, are expected to tour the county in the coming days to officially launch the projects.
He maintained that the Kenya Kwanza administration had made steady progress in infrastructure development across the country and will continue implementing projects aimed at strengthening the national economy and improving the quality of life for all Kenyans.
On his part, Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki, who attended the ceremony, welcomed the proposed fund, saying it would significantly boost development at the constituency and county levels.
Mbiuki said improved infrastructure would open up rural areas, enhance access to markets and social services, and spur economic growth, adding that Parliament remains committed to supporting government initiatives that improve livelihoods of wananchi.
By Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
