Natalie Nyathi
Kenya is increasingly turning to China for its infrastructure needs. This change is evident in a recent highway expansion project worth $1.5 billion that will be backed by Chinese companies. This decision comes after challenges with U.S. funding for a different project.
The new highway aims to improve connections between Mombasa, a key port city, and western Kenya, helping trade with neighboring countries like Uganda. Kenya’s officials have expressed concerns about their ability to borrow more money, making the partnership with China appealing.
Previously, Kenya had plans for the Nairobi Bus Rapid Transit system, which was supported by the United States. However, funding for that project was put in doubt after adjustments in U.S. foreign aid.
China has recently renewed its focus on infrastructure in Africa after slowing down lending in the past. The country has announced a willingness to invest $50 billion in credit and infrastructure projects across the continent. China’s investments have touched on various sectors, including roads, railways, and digital connectivity.
The highway expansion will be done in two phases. In the first phase, China Road and Bridge Corporation will team up with Kenya’s National Social Security Fund to convert a single-lane highway into a dual carriageway. The second phase will see another Chinese firm upgrade part of the highway into a six-lane road. The financing will mainly come from debt provided by Chinese banks and state institutions.
Kenya’s deepening relationship with China comes at a time when it also has a strong bond with the United States. The two countries have worked together for many years, focusing on areas like security, public health, and economic growth. However, Kenya’s focus on infrastructure development has led it to strengthen ties with China, which could have long-term effects.
President Ruto has emphasized the importance of boosting exports to countries like China,
“Kenya needed to boost exports into markets like China,” and recent agreements signed between Kenya and China focus on infrastructure and technology.