The Institute for Development and Leadership in Africa (IDEA) commends the strong and growing relations between China, Kenya, and Africa as a whole.
The establishment of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is a significant and positive initiative that facilitates engagement between China and the African continent.
However, IDEA emphasizes that this engagement framework should operate on a win-win basis for both parties.
It should not be perceived as a means for China to monopolize business and investment opportunities in Africa.
There are concerns that Chinese bilateral aid to Africa may be viewed as investments with long-term hidden interests by the government of the People’s Republic of China.
Similar to the practices of developed nations such as the United States and European countries, China must ensure that its loans and aid do not inadvertently support corruption or mismanagement in African projects, as seen in some Chinese-supported initiatives in Kenya, including the SGR and Expressway projects.
IDEA’s Director General, Mr. Denise Kodhe, acknowledges President Ruto’s visit to China for the FOCAC meeting as a commendable step.
However, he urges caution to ensure that Kenya does not enter into deals or cooperation arrangements that could result in burdensome debts for Kenyans.
Many African countries, including Kenya, are currently struggling with Chinese debt and facing the risk of losing key assets used as collateral for these loans.