The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) (COTU) has publicly supported the establishment of the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) and the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), describing the initiative as a major step toward enhancing national development.
COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, in a statement released on Monday, urged Kenyan workers and professionals to back the government’s effort, noting that strategic infrastructure investment is critical for creating jobs and attracting investment.
“Kenya cannot achieve sustained growth without deliberate investment in roads, railways, ports, energy, housing, and digital infrastructure,” Atwoli said.
He emphasised that modern infrastructure is essential for improving urban planning, service delivery, and workers’ quality of life.
The union leader pointed out that resistance to the funds reflects short-term thinking and fear of change.
He called on experts across sectors, including engineers, economists, planners, and lawyers, to educate the public on the fund’s role in securing the economic future of Kenyan families.
Atwoli drew comparisons with countries such as Singapore and Malaysia, which implemented long-term infrastructure plans and sovereign investment strategies to drive industrialisation and raise living standards.
Domestically, he cited recent urban improvements in Kisumu, Eldoret, and Kakamega, where affordable housing and infrastructure projects are already transforming communities.
While expressing strong support, Atwoli emphasised the importance of accountability.
He urged the government to ensure transparent management of the funds to guarantee that resources are used efficiently and deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
The statement concluded with a call for national unity behind the government’s development agenda, stressing that history shows meaningful progress often comes from bold and ambitious initiatives.
COTU’s backing comes as the government seeks to accelerate infrastructure-led growth and industrialisation, positioning Kenya for long-term economic competitiveness and improved standards of living.