Written By Lisa Murimi
China’s President Xi Jinping has reignited Beijing’s charm offensive in Africa, calling for a deeper strategic partnership with Kenya.
This comes just months after the U.S. President Joe Biden extended a significant diplomatic gesture to President William Ruto, naming Kenya a non-NATO ally, signaling Washington’s intensified interest in the East African nation.
During a meeting with President Ruto at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, Xi emphasized the need for “sincere partners of mutual trust” as China repositions itself in Africa.
This move is seen as part of China’s strategy to secure allies amid escalating tensions with the U.S., particularly over Taiwan.
Xi outlined three key areas for strengthening ties, including mutual support in safeguarding national sovereignty, aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with Kenya’s Vision 2030, and promoting global fairness.
Ruto’s visit to China is also viewed as an opportunity to renew Chinese loans for Kenya’s infrastructure projects, such as the Standard Gauge Railway and other critical developments.
In return, China has committed to opening its markets to Kenyan agricultural products, offering a significant boost to the country’s farming sector.
As the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) continues, several bilateral agreements are expected to be signed, potentially redefining Kenya’s economic trajectory.
