In a recent defense of President William Ruto’s visit to China, a section of Kenya Kwanza leaders emphasized the trip’s role in boosting the country’s infrastructure development and attracting foreign investment. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro were among those who spoke out in support of the state visit, which has garnered both praise and criticism in equal measure.
Ichung’wah dismissed claims that Ruto’s visit was focused on borrowing, instead asserting that the trip was aimed at securing investments for the country’s crucial development projects. One of the key projects discussed was the Rironi-Mau Summit road, which, according to Ichung’wah, would extend further from Malaba, significantly contributing to Kenya’s infrastructure network. The road expansion is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety on one of the country’s busiest highways.
Echoing Ichung’wah’s sentiments, Osoro stressed that the President’s engagement with China was part of a broader effort to secure long-term investments, refuting accusations that international investors were abandoning Kenya. He pointed out that the deals signed during the visit, including multi-million-dollar agreements, would bring much-needed infrastructure and development.
Ruto’s visit, which lasted five days, saw the signing of several agreements, including the continuation of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project. This deal covers Phase 2B, from Naivasha to Kisumu, and Phase 2C, from Kisumu to Malaba, while also addressing ongoing road projects like the Rironi-Mau Summit highway under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI, an ambitious global infrastructure development strategy proposed by China, has positioned Kenya as a key player in Africa’s development trajectory, with the country being the largest recipient of Chinese financial aid in the region.
The visit also resulted in the signing of agreements for enhancing Nairobi’s transport system, including Phase III of the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS), aimed at easing traffic congestion in the capital.
Overall, the trip highlights Kenya’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its infrastructure, attract international investment, and become a central player in global connectivity.
