Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has proposed that Kenya should capitalise on its oil and mineral resources to manage the country's escalating debt, currently estimated at Sh13 trillion.
Highlighting the oil reserves in Turkana and mineral deposits in Kwale, Nyoro emphasised the need for these assets to benefit both the local communities and the nation at large. He cautioned against private interests exploiting these resources for personal gain, stressing that they represent a critical economic opportunity for Kenya.
Key points from Nyoro's proposals:
- Kenya is borrowing approximately Sh9 billion daily, burdening every citizen with an estimated debt of Sh228,000.
- Proper management of oil and mineral wealth could reduce reliance on external borrowing.
- Nyoro called for increased vigilance to protect natural resources from exploitation.
- He suggested raising monthly cash transfers for older persons from Sh2,000 to Sh3,000 starting January 2028, with a further increase after three years.
- On the judiciary, he proposed doubling its capacity within five years and legislating a minimum allocation of 1.5% of national revenue annually.
- Nyoro also recommended creating a government-owned digital services company consolidating platforms like eCitizen and SHA, to be listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange with the government holding a majority stake.
These initiatives form part of Nyoro's broader vision for Kenya’s economic sustainability and governance reforms, signalling his intention to expand his political role beyond his current constituency.
