Former Budget and Appropriations Committee Chairperson and Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has launched a strong critique of the government’s plan to establish the proposed National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), raising serious concerns over accountability, transparency, and Kenya’s growing public debt. Speaking during a press briefing, Nyoro faulted President William Ruto’s administration for pushing forward with another mega funding initiative without first accounting for nearly Ksh 4 trillion borrowed since 2022. According to the legislator, Kenyans deserve clear explanations on how the massive borrowing spree has been utilized before being asked to support yet another trillion-shilling fund.
“Explain What Has Already Been Borrowed”
Nyoro argued that before introducing new financing vehicles such as the NIF, the government must openly account for how previously borrowed funds have been spent and outline safeguards to prevent misuse. He noted that borrowing close to Ksh 4 trillion in just a few years should have translated into visible, completed development projects across the country. Instead, he said, many Kenyans are struggling to see tangible benefits from the debt. The MP insisted that transparency is not optional, emphasizing that leaders must directly face the public and explain how the money has been deployed.
Debt Levels Raise Red Flags
Nyoro’s remarks come against the backdrop of alarming debt figures. A recent report by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), presented to the National Assembly’s Privatization Committee, shows that Kenya’s public debt rose to Ksh.12 trillion by June 2025, up from Ksh.8.5 trillion in June 2022. According to Nyoro, such a sharp increase in borrowing should have fundamentally transformed the country’s infrastructure and service delivery. He argued that, in theory, the funds borrowed could have delivered completed projects worth billions in every constituency, including extensive road networks and long-term development initiatives.
Basic Services Being Neglected
The Kiharu MP also criticized the government for what he described as misplaced priorities. While authorities continue to promote large-scale development plans, Nyoro noted that essential sectors such as education and healthcare remain underfunded. He questioned the logic of unveiling trillion-shilling infrastructure proposals at a time when school capitation is being reduced and health systems are under pressure. In his view, flashy development promises risk distracting the public from the erosion of critical services that directly affect ordinary Kenyans.
Allegations of Irregular Borrowing
In a particularly sharp accusation, Nyoro claimed that some loans taken by the government fall outside established legal and public borrowing frameworks. He cited examples of financing arrangements that he said were not transparently disclosed or properly authorized. According to the legislator, such borrowing practices raise serious governance concerns and further undermine public trust in the administration’s handling of public finances.
Government Presses On With NIF and SWF
Despite the growing criticism, the government appears determined to move ahead. On Monday, the Cabinet approved the establishment of both the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) and the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), describing them as key pillars of Kenya’s long-term economic transformation agenda. The government says the NIF will be managed by a competitively appointed board and chief executive officer, while the SWF will operate under a robust policy framework designed to promote prudent investment, fiscal discipline, and inter-generational equity. However, Nyoro’s opposition signals a widening rift within political circles over how Kenya’s debt is managed and whether new funds can be trusted without first resolving accountability concerns.
A Debate That Is Far From Over
As the government pushes forward with the proposed funds, pressure continues to mount from lawmakers and the public demanding answers on debt utilization, transparency, and oversight. Nyoro’s outspoken stance has reignited a national conversation on whether Kenya is borrowing too much and whether the benefits are reaching the people. With debt levels climbing and essential services strained, the debate over the National Infrastructure Fund is likely to intensify in the coming weeks.
