Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has come out strongly in defense of the Adani Group amidst growing criticism over its involvement in Kenya’s infrastructure projects. Odinga addressed concerns about transparency and investor integrity during a press briefing on Sunday, citing Adani’s successful track record in India.
Photo courtesy: Professor Makau Mutua and Hon Raila Odinga.
The Indian conglomerate has proposed a $1.84 billion investment to expand and modernize Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The project, designed to last 30 years under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreement, has ignited a public debate, with critics worried about the privatization of a profitable national asset.
Photo courtesy: JKIA entrance.
Odinga, however, vouched for Adani’s credibility, citing their ability to turn struggling projects into world-class infrastructure, referencing his past experiences in Gujarat. He emphasized that Kenya’s PPP laws, modeled on India’s, must be improved to attract credible investors while safeguarding national interests.
Photo courtesy: Raila Odinga.
Despite Odinga’s assurances, critics like Senior Counsel Ahmednassir Abdullahi have raised concerns. “Bangladesh is bankrupt because of Adani’s inflated electricity bill… Poor Kenya will be milked dry,” Ahmednassir tweeted, expressing fears that Adani’s involvement could lead to financial exploitation. Ahmednassir is an ally of President William Ruto.
Senior Counsel Ahmednassir Abdullahi. (Photo courtesy).
Odinga urged the government to handle public concerns with transparency, ensuring PPP processes remain open and competitive while protecting jobs and environmental standards. He cautioned against politicizing the issue, warning that mishandling the matter could stall critical infrastructure development.
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