The recent reception of Chinese Ambassador Scholarship awardees in Kenya highlights Beijing’s unwavering commitment to implementing the resolutions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). As the ninth FOCAC summit approaches, scheduled to take place in Beijing from September 4th to 6th, 2024, it is clear that the Sino-African relationship has significantly strengthened since its inception in 2000. This summit, initially led by former Chinese President Jiang Zemin, laid the foundation for what has become a robust partnership between China and African nations, including Kenya.
Over the years, China has made significant strides in economic and trade cooperation with Kenya, underscoring its commitment to FOCAC’s objectives. This partnership has been especially evident across various sectors such as medical care, education, human resource development, credit, and infrastructure financing.
In the realm of medical care and public health, China has extended its support through the funding and construction of key healthcare facilities in Kenya. Notably, the Malaria Prevention and Treatment Centre and the Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital in Nairobi were constructed with Chinese assistance. Upon the completion of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, China further demonstrated its commitment by providing medical supplies and equipment valued at Sh180 million. These contributions have played a crucial role in improving healthcare services for Kenyans.
Human resource development and education have also been significant focal points of China’s cooperation with Kenya. The Chinese government has consistently expanded training programs for Kenyan officials and technicians. These programs, covering a wide array of fields including economy, trade, agriculture, medical services, communication, and education, have been instrumental in enhancing the skills and knowledge of Kenyan professionals. This year alone, 19 Kenyan students were awarded scholarships to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in China, bringing the total number of scholarships awarded over the past four decades to 2,000.
President Xi Jinping’s announcement during the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue in Johannesburg in August 2023 further exemplifies China’s commitment to education and talent development. The plan includes training 500 principals and high-caliber teachers annually from African vocational colleges, educating 10,000 technical personnel proficient in both the Chinese language and vocational skills, and inviting 20,000 government officials and technicians from Africa to participate in workshops and seminars in China. This initiative aims to foster a new generation of skilled professionals who can contribute to the development of their respective countries.
Moreover, China’s educational support extends beyond scholarships and training programs. As Mandarin becomes an optional language in Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), China’s cooperation is crucial in addressing the shortage of Chinese language teachers in Kenya. By increasing the number of Mandarin scholarships, China is not only promoting cultural exchange but also enhancing economic ties between the two nations.
In the area of infrastructure and development financing, China’s role in Kenya’s growth is undeniable. Through concessional loans and preferential export buyer’s credit, China has supported numerous infrastructure projects in Kenya. These include the construction of key highways, the upgrading of power distribution networks, and the development of geothermal energy fields. Chinese companies, adhering to international standards, have built essential transport, communication, and electricity infrastructure, thereby improving local conditions for economic growth and self-development.
China’s support has also extended to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya. The provision of a Special Loan for the Development of African SMEs has been pivotal in supporting sectors such as tea production, power generation, and regional aviation.
Furthermore, China’s humanitarian assistance has reinforced its friendship with Kenya. When Kenya faced its worst drought and famine in 60 years, China stepped in with donations of rice, flour, cooking oil, and other essential supplies worth Sh1.8 billion. This gesture reflects the close ties and mutual concern between the two nations.
As the ninth FOCAC summit approaches, the achievements in China-Kenya relations underscore the success of this partnership. Through continued implementation of FOCAC resolutions, China remains a steadfast partner in Kenya’s development journey, contributing to the nation’s economic growth, social progress, and human resource development.
