UBA Commits KES 20.5 Billion to Transform Kenya’s Roads
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Sep 17
- 3 min read
Kenya has received a major boost for its infrastructure development as United Bank for Africa (UBA) has pledged USD 150 million (approximately KES 20.5 billion) to support the country’s ambitious Roads Levy Securitisation Programme. The announcement was made in Nairobi during a high-level meeting between UBA leadership, President William Ruto, and senior government officials, signaling strong investor confidence in Kenya’s economic future.
What is the Roads Levy Securitisation Programme?
The Roads Levy Securitisation Programme is part of a USD 1.35 billion government plan to modernize and expand Kenya’s road network. Under this programme, funds collected through the Road Maintenance Levy will be used in advance through a process known as “securitisation,” allowing contractors to be paid faster and stalled road projects to be completed on time.
By converting future predictable revenue into upfront financing, the government can accelerate key road projects, reduce construction delays, and enhance connectivity across the country. This approach also ensures better financial planning and minimizes disruptions in infrastructure development.
Impact of UBA’s Financial Commitment
UBA’s commitment of KES 20.5 billion is expected to deliver:
Timely payments to contractors: This will ensure continuous work on major road projects without unnecessary delays.
Improved road quality: Enhanced road infrastructure means safer, faster, and more reliable transport for goods and passengers.
Boost to trade and SMEs: Reliable road networks open new opportunities for farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses to access markets.
Job creation: Construction projects generate direct and indirect employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Regional connectivity: Modern roads will improve links between counties, rural areas, and key trade corridors, benefiting both local and international trade.
Government and Private Sector Partnership
During the meeting in Nairobi, President William Ruto welcomed the UBA delegation led by Group Managing Director Oliver Alawuba and UBA Kenya CEO Mary Mulilu. The government emphasized that private sector support is essential to achieving Kenya’s long-term infrastructure goals and strengthening its economy.
UBA reaffirmed its commitment not only to Kenya’s transport sector but also to broader economic growth, financial inclusion, and regional integration efforts.
Benefits for Kenya-Arab Trade Relations
For the Joint Kenya-Arab Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JKACCI), this development offers significant opportunities:
Faster movement of goods between Kenya and Arab markets through improved road networks.
Lower transportation costs for exporters and importers, enhancing trade competitiveness.
More investment opportunities for Arab partners in logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Support for small businesses engaged in cross-border trade and supply chains.
With better infrastructure, Arab investors will find Kenya a more attractive destination for trade and industrial partnerships, creating a win-win situation for both sides.
Future Outlook
Experts believe the Roads Levy Securitisation Programme will serve as a model for other East African nations looking for innovative infrastructure financing solutions. Kenya’s focus on public-private partnerships is expected to attract additional investments from regional and international financiers in the coming years.
If managed transparently and efficiently, this programme could transform Kenya’s transport sector, reduce logistical costs, and accelerate the country’s journey toward becoming a leading trade hub in Africa.
Conclusion
UBA’s USD 150 million pledge marks a turning point for Kenya’s infrastructure agenda. Faster road construction, stronger trade networks, and increased investor confidence all point to a brighter economic future. For Kenya, Arab partners, and JKACCI members, this is a major step forward: better roads mean better business, better connectivity, and better lives.
Comments