Public-private partnerships good for Kenya’s economic growth – Raila

In a recent address in Mombasa, Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), expressed strong support for the controversial leasing of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the Adani Group. 

He argued that such a partnership could significantly enhance Kenya's economic landscape, especially in light of the country’s current financial challenges.

Mr Odinga emphasized the necessity of embracing Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a viable strategy for attracting investment and fostering development. 

“Adani is a reputable company with a solid track record in executing large-scale projects,” Mr Odinga stated.

Drawing from his experiences in India, he shared notable examples of the Adani Group’s successful ventures, including the transformation of a swampy area in Mundra into a thriving industrial zone featuring a deep-sea port and multiple power plants.

He recounted how this initiative not only revitalised the region but also spurred population growth, turning a small village into a bustling town.

Mr Odinga's historical ties to the Adani Group date back to 2010 when he met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who introduced him to key figures within the Adani conglomerate. 

He detailed witnessing first-hand the impact of PPPs in India, highlighting how the Adani Group modernised airports that had previously suffered from poor maintenance, showcasing their capability to elevate infrastructure standards.

Despite his strong advocacy for the Adani deal, Raila acknowledged the existing concerns regarding the transparency of PPP processes in Kenya.

He underscored the importance of building trust and confidence among investors, stating, “We need to protect the framework of PPPs to ensure that investors feel secure in committing resources to our public utilities.” 

He cautioned against prematurely condemning reputable companies due to misunderstandings or mismanagement in the past.

Mr Odinga’s remarks come at a pivotal moment, as the Adani Energy Group recently secured Kenya's first PPP-funded power project, estimated at Sh95.68 billion (USD 736 million), aimed at addressing the nation’s ongoing electricity shortages.

The project will enhance power infrastructure and improve reliability for Kenya's burgeoning industrial sector.
However, uncertainty looms over the Adani Airports Holdings Limited's (AAHL) proposed takeover of JKIA, with legal challenges emerging from organisations like the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC). 

The High Court is expected to deliver a ruling on October 25 regarding the legal proceedings surrounding this controversial takeover.

Mr Odinga’s strong endorsement of the Adani partnership highlights the potential benefits of strategic foreign investment while advocating for the necessary legal frameworks to ensure transparency and confidence in the country's economic future.