Mbadi Appoints Six to National Infrastructure Fund Board

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi

The National Treasury has taken another step toward activating the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF). Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has appointed six professionals to serve on the fund's governing board.

The appointments appeared in a special issue of the Kenya Gazette published on July 8. The new board members assumed office immediately after the gazette notice took effect.

Experienced Professionals Join the Board

The appointees include James Mworia Mwirigi, Fahima Ali Ahmed Zein, Christopher Kibui Maranga, Latoya Ouna, Lawrence Kibet and Mohammed Abdirahman Hassan. They will oversee the management and implementation of the fund's mandate.

Mworia currently leads Centum Investment Company as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Kibet serves as the Director General for Public Investments and Portfolio Management at the National Treasury.

Fund Targets Long-Term Infrastructure Financing

The government established the National Infrastructure Fund to finance strategic development projects. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on debt while supporting large public investments.

The fund received KSh103.45 billion earlier this year as its initial capital. The money came from proceeds generated through the sale of a majority stake in Kenya Pipeline Company.

Treasury also plans to raise additional funds through the partial disposal of government shares in a major telecommunications firm. The transaction could inject about KSh244 billion into the fund.

Airport and Highway Projects Among Priorities

The government expects the fund to support several flagship infrastructure projects. One of the largest is the KSh154.2 billion first phase of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport expansion.

The airport project will increase annual passenger capacity and improve cargo handling facilities. Construction activities have already started at the airport.

The Nairobi–Namanga Highway expansion also ranks among the projects expected to receive funding. The plan includes upgrading the road into a dual carriageway and introducing toll stations.