Kenya to Host Top IFC Mission in 2026 as Push for New Financing Model Gains Momentum

By Brian Kiprono - Reporter

Kenya, 4 December 2025 - Kenya is set to welcome a senior delegation from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) early next year, marking a significant step in the country’s shift toward development financing driven by private capital.

President William Ruto announced the visit on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., where he held talks with IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop. The mission, which will be headed by Mohamed Gouled, IFC’s Vice President for Industries, is expected to deepen discussions on major energy and infrastructure projects central to Kenya’s economic growth plans.

At the heart of the talks will be the long-awaited modernisation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), which the government wants to implement through a Public Private Partnership. The airport upgrade has been highlighted by the aviation sector as overdue, with travellers raising concerns about ageing facilities and congestion. Officials say the IFC engagement could finally unlock financing options that have stalled for years.

The delegation will also explore opportunities in Kenya’s renewable energy pipeline, including geothermal, hydro and wind projects. With households and businesses still grappling with high power costs, State House says the partnerships are aimed at stabilising supply and expanding clean generation.

President Ruto described the IFC’s renewed interest as a strong endorsement of Kenya’s emerging development model, anchored in a newly established National Infrastructure Fund. The fund is designed to attract private-sector investment into major road networks, ports, transmission lines and other big-ticket projects that have previously relied on expensive public borrowing.

“Our innovative approach to development financing is drawing strong interest from partners,” Ruto said in a statement shared on social media.

“The IFC’s confidence in the Infrastructure Fund shows that global institutions see Kenya as a serious, investable destination.”

He added that the government expects the new partnerships to accelerate job creation and ease pressure on public finances at a time when many families are struggling with the cost of living.

The visit, scheduled for early 2026, is expected to set the stage for a new wave of investment commitments as Kenya positions itself as a regional hub for sustainable infrastructure and clean energy.