A Kenyan expert has highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by China as a driving force behind infrastructure development and economic growth in Kenya. The initiative facilitates regional economic cooperation and cultural exchange while bringing unparalleled opportunities for the country’s development. Dennis Munene Mwaniki, Executive Director of the China-Africa Center at the Kenya Institute of African Policy, noted that the BRI has achieved remarkable results since its inception and has significantly benefited Kenya as a key participant.
“Infrastructure development is a notable area where Kenya has achieved significant progress by participating in several BRI projects, such as the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the expansion of the Mombasa Port,” Mwaniki said, emphasizing the importance of the initiative. He added that the SGR project has boosted trade between Kenya and its neighbors, strengthening economic cooperation and cultural exchange across Africa. As the SGR continues to expand and operate, it is expected to enhance Kenya’s logistics efficiency and support long-term economic growth.
Mwaniki also underscored the BRI’s critical role in Africa’s transition to clean energy. He noted that China, as a leader in new energy technologies, has partnered with Kenya on numerous renewable energy projects, including solar and wind power development. These collaborations have bolstered Kenya’s energy independence and supported broader green transformation efforts across Africa. Addressing criticism, Mwaniki suggested that opposition to the initiative often stems from entities that benefit from maintaining Africa’s underdevelopment. “The arrival of the Belt and Road Initiative has brought transformative change to the continent, empowering African countries with greater agency and development capabilities,” he stated. Mwaniki expressed confidence that as more countries join and cooperation deepens, the BRI will continue to expand its scope and impact, injecting new momentum into the global economy.
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