Kenya has moved to reassure the World Bank of its commitment to economic reforms while calling for faster release of development funds as the country battles tight finances and public pressure over debt.

According to a post on X by the Treasury on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi met World Bank Managing Director for Operations Anne Bjerde in Nairobi, where he praised the Bank’s continued support and reiterated Kenya’s focus on rebuilding the economy through the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Mbadi said the government would keep pursuing prudent fiscal policies to reduce debt risks and protect key social programmes. He added that Kenya remains committed to reforms that support growth and stabilise public finances, even as global lenders face criticism from Kenyans on social media for pushing tough conditions.

He noted that the World Bank’s partnership framework aligns fully with BETA and remains a central pillar in the country’s development financing strategy.

During the talks, Mbadi thanked the Bank for approving Project Preparation Advances worth Ksh 1.16 billion. The funding will support three major initiatives: the Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project, the Road and Rural Economic Development Project, and the Lake Victoria Basin Development Project.

He said the government is already preparing projects for support under the upcoming IDA-21 cycle, signalling Kenya’s intention to keep tapping concessional World Bank funds.

Calls for swift funding

At the same time, the CS acknowledged concerns that have been raised about reforms tied to previous Development Policy Operations. He assured the Bank that Kenya is working to address gaps to ensure stronger implementation and accountability.

He also revealed that Kenya is finalising a Host Country Agreement with the World Bank Country Office through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition, the Treasury is reviewing rules to support the use of electronic signatures in government dealings, aiming to modernise processes and speed up approvals.

Mbadi then made a direct appeal, urging the World Bank to expedite disbursement of funds under Development Policy Operation 7 once ongoing technical talks conclude.

“The CS also sought the Bank’s support for the timely disbursement of DPO 7 resources once ongoing technical consultations are concluded,” the statement from Treasury reads in part.