Wetang’ula: Sh5tn National Infrastructure Fund key to Kenya’s development drive

Wetang’ula: Sh5tn National Infrastructure Fund key to Kenya’s development drive
In Summary

Wetang’ula underscored the transformative potential of the proposed Ksh 5 trillion fund, noting that it will unlock the country’s capacity to undertake large-scale infrastructure development.

National Infrastructure Fund will be a game changer in financing Kenya’s critical development projects, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has said.

Wetang’ula underscored the transformative potential of the proposed Ksh 5 trillion fund, noting that it will unlock the country’s capacity to undertake large-scale infrastructure development.

“The National Infrastructure Fund will play a critical role in financing key projects such as housing, airports, roads, dams and ports, which are essential for economic growth and national development,” he said.

However, Wetang’ula emphasized that the success of such ambitious projects hinges on national unity, peace and cooperation among Kenyans.

“These projects can only be realised where there is peace, harmony and a spirit of camaraderie among our people,” he noted.

Referencing President William Ruto’s “journey to Singapore” analogy, the Speaker clarified that the vision is not a literal comparison, but a long-term development pathway.

“The journey to Singapore is not about going to a country called Singapore, but about steadily transforming Kenya from a developing nation into a middle-income and eventually a fully developed economy through deliberate investment in infrastructure,” he explained.

Drawing parallels with global development trajectories, Wetang’ula pointed to China’s rapid rise over three decades as proof that such a transformation is achievable.

“It took China about 30 years to move from a backward economy to a global superpower. It is possible to make our country a first-class nation if we remain focused, prayerful and supportive of the leadership’s efforts,” he stated.

“I know even our fiercest critics understand that this journey is possible and achievable with the right leadership in place,” he added.

The Speaker also weighed in on the broader national discourse, observing that Kenya is at a critical juncture that demands unity of purpose among leaders and citizens.

“We continue to engage in a robust national conversation on the future of our country. We must respect one another and be willing to be led, appreciating that leadership is a shared responsibility,” he said.

Wetang’ula, however, expressed concern over rising tribal rhetoric among sections of the political class, warning that such divisive narratives threaten national cohesion.

“I strongly rebuke the tribal rhetoric perpetuated by a section of the political class. If left unchecked, such utterances risk consuming and tearing apart the very fabric of our country,” he cautioned.

He specifically warned against politics rooted in ethnic and regional identity, urging leaders to desist from divisive tendencies.

“These politics of ‘my tribe, my region, my people’ are dangerous. I urge residents, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, not to allow any leader to segregate them from the rest of Kenyans,” he said.

The Speaker reiterated that Kenya has one leader at any given time and called for respect across the political divide.

“At any given time, a nation has one leader, and currently that is President William Ruto, who deserves the respect of all, regardless of political affiliation,” he said.

He further urged Kenyans to reject division and embrace national unity.

“I urge our people not to allow themselves to be isolated or segregated on the basis of region or ethnic background. Our strength lies in our unity as a nation,” he added.

Wetang’ula acknowledged the late Raila Odinga of the Orange Democratic Movement for his consistent display of magnanimity during election periods.

“I wish to acknowledge Raila Odinga (May he rest in eternal peace) for his magnanimity during elections, consistently extending a hand of unity to his competitors in the interest of national cohesion,” he said.

Wetang’ula’s remarks come at a time of heightened political activity in the country with leaders increasingly being urged to tone down divisive rhetoric and focus on development-driven agendas aimed at improving the livelihoods of Kenyans.

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