Treasury Highlights Innovative Financing at Kenyatta University Engineering Conference

The National Treasury has underlined the importance of innovative financing and engineering excellence in driving Kenya’s infrastructure agenda. Director General for Public Private Partnerships Eng. Kepha Seda represented Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi at the opening of the second African Journal of Engineering Research and Innovation scientific conference at Kenyatta University.

The gathering focused on the role of engineering innovation, sound fiscal planning and creative infrastructure financing in supporting economic transformation. Participants stressed that rigorous project preparation and evidence-based decision making remain essential if infrastructure is to generate lasting economic value.

Discussions covered the growing use of public-private partnerships, blended finance, infrastructure funds and climate finance. These tools are seen as critical for mobilising investment, protecting fiscal sustainability and delivering value for money on major projects. Kenya continues to promote collaboration between government, the engineering profession, investors and academia to develop bankable schemes and attract private capital.

The conference provided a platform for practical engineering solutions aimed at strengthening economic planning, improving resource efficiency and accelerating industrialisation across Africa. Officials reiterated the country’s commitment to infrastructure that enhances competitiveness and improves living standards.

For the construction sector, the emphasis on early project preparation and innovative funding models is significant. Many large schemes stall or face cost overruns when technical and financial grounding is weak. Closer links between engineers, financiers and policymakers are intended to reduce those risks.

Public-private partnerships have already featured in several Kenyan road, energy and urban projects. Expanding their use, alongside climate-linked finance, could help close the infrastructure gap while limiting pressure on the public budget. The Treasury’s presence at the conference signals continued priority for these approaches.

Engineering research and innovation remain central to delivering resilient infrastructure suited to local conditions. The AJERI conference forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the knowledge base supporting Africa’s development programmes.