Kenya’s First World Journey Begins Today, Says Ruto as Cabinet Approves National Infrastructure Fund

President William Ruto’s dream and vision of transforming Kenya from a third world country into a developed economy officially starts today, with the Cabinet set to approve the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF).

Speaking on Sunday in Kiambu County during a church service at the Africa Inland Pentecostal Church Assembly (AIPCA), Gatundu North Diocese, President Ruto said the approval of the NIF will take centre stage at today’s Cabinet meeting and mark the beginning of a bold national development programme.

“Tomorrow, we will officially start the journey to transform the country into a First World country,” Ruto said. “We will begin the journey to transform the country from a Third World to a First World tomorrow.”

According to the President, the National Infrastructure Fund will mobilise up to Ksh5 trillion to finance large-scale development projects critical to Kenya’s long-term economic growth. He said the fund will channel resources into infrastructure development, industrialisation, and other productive sectors to stimulate growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Kenyans.

“We are not joking, my friends. This country must be transformed by all means possible. We are very late. We are behind schedule in kicking out hunger and poverty,” Ruto said.

He pointed to global success stories as proof that Kenya can achieve similar progress if it commits to discipline, consistency, and strategic investment.

“This country can be transformed. If Singapore, South Korea and Malaysia did it, why not us?”

President Ruto reiterated his belief that Kenya can replicate the rapid development of countries like Singapore by staying the course on economic reforms and prioritising impactful development programmes. He stressed that genuine transformation requires action, not political slogans.

He also dismissed claims that his aggressive development agenda is driven by the 2027 General Election, insisting that his focus remains firmly on delivery rather than political survival.

“I am not doing all this because I want votes in 2027. I am past looking for votes. My mission is to change the country,” Ruto said.

“If it was about votes, you elected me in 2022 and that is enough for me to deliver. Elections will come later; it is time to work. When that time comes, people should be judged according to what they have done.”

The President urged Kenyans to hold leaders accountable and reject politicians who prioritise rhetoric over service delivery.

“Those who keep talking, insulting others and not serving the people should be sent home very fast,” he said.

Ruto explained that the National Infrastructure Fund is designed to provide a credible and sustainable alternative to excessive public borrowing by unlocking large-scale private sector capital for national development. He said the fund will help reduce Kenya’s reliance on debt while ensuring long-term financing for critical infrastructure and economic projects.

In addition to the NIF, the Cabinet is also expected to deliberate on the Sovereign Wealth Fund Policy, which the government sees as another key pillar in strengthening Kenya’s economic resilience and financing future development.

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