The World Bank is set to broaden its scope of support in Kenya to include the minerals and pharmaceutical sectors, following high-level talks between Treasury officials and Dr. Zarah Kibwe, the Executive Director representing the African Group I (AfGI) at the World Bank, in the United States.
According to a statement from the National Treasury on Monday, October 13, the proposals seek to pilot assistance for local pharmaceutical manufacturers and support Kenya’s growing mineral and rare metals value chain. The discussions also covered Kenya’s implementation of the Digital Compact, a United Nations framework promoting an open, secure, and inclusive digital future.
The meeting further explored Kenya’s participation in the UN Energy Compact, a voluntary framework aimed at achieving affordable and clean energy under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Another key proposal involved engaging the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to drive private sector participation in the digital economy and manufacturing.
Currently, the World Bank supports Kenya across critical sectors, including infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, and climate resilience — with investments totaling around $8 billion (Ksh1 trillion). Major projects include the Kenya Electricity Expansion Project ($330 million), the Kenya Health Sector Support Project ($100 million), and the Kenya Transport Sector Support Project ($203.5 million), among others.
The expanded collaboration signals the World Bank’s intent to play a stronger role not just in financing but also in shaping Kenya’s policy direction and institutional capacity.
However, the development comes amid public criticism of the Bank’s recent recommendation that Kenya raise taxes, including VAT, to improve its fiscal health a move many citizens blame for worsening economic challenges.
As the partnership evolves, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these new initiatives balance economic reform with social impact.
