China to Fund SGR Extension and Nithi Bridge Under New Kenya-China Pacts
Kenya has secured a major economic boost as China pledged to finance critical infrastructure projects, including the long-awaited extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Malaba and the construction of the Nithi Bridge in Tharaka Nithi County. The commitments are part of 20 new bilateral agreements signed during President William Ruto’s state visit to Beijing.
President Ruto and Chinese President Xi Jinping presided over the signing of the multi-billion-shilling Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and cooperation frameworks, which span infrastructure, trade, digital innovation, education, health, and agriculture.
“These agreements open a new frontier of collaboration that is mutually beneficial and transformative,” said President Ruto. “Our Chinese partners will invest significant resources to improve our road infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, and digital economy.”
Major Infrastructure Projects
China’s commitment includes the SGR extension to Malaba, a key part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aimed at strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional logistics hub. Other projects include:
- Expansion of the Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit highway
- Upgrades to the Eldoret and Kiambu-Northern bypasses
- Construction of the Nithi Bridge
- Implementation of Nairobi’s Intelligent Transport System to manage urban traffic
Through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), China will also help modernise East Africa’s transport corridor, facilitating faster trade and mobility.
Boost for Education and Health
Under the TVET III Project, China will finance upgrades to technical and vocational training institutions across Kenya, enhancing youth employability. Additionally, Beijing will support the Universal Health Coverage initiative by funding hospital infrastructure and encouraging pharmaceutical investments.
Tech and Digital Development
In the digital realm, the two nations agreed to cooperate on the National Digital Superhighway Programme, including expansion of the national fibre optic network and digitisation of government services.
Trade and Agricultural Exports
A Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development was also signed. The deal is expected to boost Kenyan exports of tea, coffee, avocados, macadamia, and other agricultural produce to Chinese markets.
At the Kenya-China Private Sector Roundtable, Ruto witnessed the signing of $1.06 billion (approx. KSh137 billion) worth of investment deals. These agreements are expected to create over 28,000 jobs, with projects ranging from manufacturing plants in Mombasa and Murang’a to agricultural ventures in Kajiado and Baringo.
One key highlight includes a Special Economic Zone in Kilifi County, projected to generate 5,000 jobs.
A Strategic Shift
President Xi Jinping commended Kenya’s economic reforms and assured continued alignment between China’s BRI and Kenya’s development agenda. He also expressed support for Kenya’s fiscal reforms and peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa.
President Ruto hailed the diplomatic success of the visit, stating, “We are not just building infrastructure and trade; we are building trust, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.”
He is expected to conclude his visit on Friday with a tour of Fujian Province, where he will engage industrial leaders in the e-mobility and tea sectors to explore further investment opportunities.
In other news: Bondo Residents Demand Apology or Resignation from Governor Orengo Over Raila-Ruto Remarks
China to Fund SGR Extension and Nithi Bridge Under New Kenya-China Pacts