President William Ruto has announced an ambitious plan to mobilize Sh1.5 trillion to construct 10,000 kilometres of new tarmac roads across Kenya, in a bid to strengthen the country’s economic foundation through improved infrastructure.
Speaking in Nakuru County during the launch of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme, Ruto said the government will establish a National Infrastructure Fund to finance the mega project.
According to the President, the fund will draw resources from multiple sources, including the national budget, privatization, capital markets, and public–private partnerships (PPPs). He emphasized the need for innovative financing approaches to reduce overreliance on public funds.
“We need sufficient roads in Kenya if we have to grow our economy sufficiently,” Ruto stated.
“If we have to facilitate the people of Kenya to transport their agricultural produce and participate in growing our economy, we need a minimum of another 10,000 kilometres of new tarmac.”
Ruto underscored that expanding Kenya’s road network will play a critical role in linking farmers to markets, enhancing regional connectivity, and unlocking rural economic potential. Improved infrastructure, he said, will help farmers access markets more efficiently, lower transportation costs, and spur job creation in the construction sector.
The President noted that Kenya must “think outside the box” to attract private capital into infrastructure development. He said the government will leverage public–private partnerships and capital market instruments to ensure the sustainability of the new National Infrastructure Fund.
Ruto’s announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to modernize Kenya’s transport infrastructure, which he described as a cornerstone for economic transformation and inclusive growth.
