President Ruto Prioritizes SGR Extension in Talks with China.
President William Ruto has emphasized that extending the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is a critical priority in Kenya’s ongoing discussions with China. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, President Ruto highlighted the strategic importance of the SGR extension and other significant infrastructure projects. These initiatives, which include the Rironi-Mau Summit-Eldoret-Malaba dual carriageway, are essential to Kenya’s development and regional connectivity.
President Ruto underscored the SGR extension’s vital role in connecting the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. Expanding the SGR from Naivasha through Uganda, Rwanda, DR Congo, and Congo Brazzaville will enhance regional trade and strengthen Kenya’s position as a logistical hub in Africa. This project is seen as a critical step in boosting economic growth for Kenya and the entire region. Moreover, the President thanked China for its ongoing support in various infrastructure projects across Kenya. These include the Integrated Transport System in Nairobi, equipping technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, the construction of Bosto Dam, and the dualling of the Northern Bypass in Nairobi.
President Ruto highlighted the need for both countries to expedite the necessary procedures for these projects, aiming to conclude them by the end of the year. He praised China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has played a crucial role in Kenya’s infrastructure development, particularly with the SGR, Kipevu Oil Terminal, and the Nairobi Expressway. Kenya remains dedicated to realizing the benefits of the BRI, which enhances connectivity at national, regional, and continental levels. The President also acknowledged China’s contributions to other sectors such as education, renewable energy, research, and information and communication technology (ICT). He particularly commended the RMB2 billion (Ksh.34 billion) loan provided by China to construct rural roads, which is vital to the 70 percent of Kenya’s population living in rural areas.
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In addition to infrastructure projects, President Ruto expressed Kenya’s interest in accessing resources from the Chinese financial market, primarily through the Panda Bond. Kenya’s recent membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) will unlock new opportunities for concessional financing in infrastructure and climate change initiatives. The President encouraged China to motivate its private sector to engage in the issuance of the Panda Bond, which would further strengthen financial cooperation between the two nations.
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President Ruto also praised China’s leadership in promoting South-South Cooperation, which is pivotal for Africa’s development. He believes this partnership is vital to unlocking Africa’s potential, particularly in harnessing mineral and non-mineral resources, renewable energy, and the demographic dividend. On his part, President Xi Jinping recognized the strong partnership between Kenya and China, noting that it has led to numerous flagship projects that have significantly boosted economic and social development in both Kenya and the wider region. He also highlighted the importance of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in further aligning the development strategies of the two nations and elevating their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
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Under President Ruto’s leadership, Kenya is poised to advance its economic reforms and enhance its infrastructure through strategic partnerships with China. The extension of the SGR and other infrastructure projects will bolster Kenya’s economic growth and strengthen regional connectivity. The commitment from both nations to deepen their cooperation is a testament to the mutual benefits of their partnership.
President Ruto Prioritizes SGR Extension in Talks with China.
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