The Ministry of Roads and Transport, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, hosted a delegation of African Ambassadors in Nairobi to showcase Kenya’s key infrastructural projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
During the event, Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary (PS) of the State Department for Transport, emphasized the participation of over 20 African ambassadors from various countries, invited to witness critical infrastructure developments financed through innovative models. He noted that the visit, led by the Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, began with a tour of the **Nairobi Expressway**, the first infrastructure project under the Gross Domestic Product framework.
“The Nairobi Expressway stretches across 27.1 kilometers through the city and currently accommodates over 69,000 vehicles daily. It is a testament to the success of the BRI and Kenya’s commitment to modern infrastructure,” PS Daghar stated.
The ambassadors also visited the Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus, another key infrastructure project under the BRI in Africa. PS Daghar expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming five-hour journey from Nairobi to Mombasa, where the ambassadors would experience firsthand the efficiency and impact of the SGR.
Looking ahead, PS Daghar confirmed the government’s commitment to extending the SGR infrastructure.
“We are working with the National Treasury and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to extend the railway from Naivasha to Kisumu (362 kilometers), with a branch line to the Kisumu port, and from Kisumu to Malaba (106 kilometers). This is part of phase two of the project,” he added.
PS Daghar also highlighted Kenya’s active role in the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, scheduled for September 3-7, 2024, which will further strengthen the partnership between Kenya and China.
Dr. Korir Sing’oei, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Foreign Affairs, reinforced these views, stating that connectivity is essential for Africa’s development.
“Connectivity unlocks agricultural, industrial, and mineral potential, fueling investment and enterprise,” Dr. Sing’oei remarked. He emphasized the importance of interconnectivity within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Kenya’s role as a key player within the Belt and Road Initiative demonstrates its commitment to fostering regional connectivity through rail, road, and digital infrastructure. This partnership with China has been integral to the country’s economic transformation and social progress,” he said.
Dr. Sing’oei also acknowledged the important contributions of partners, including the Chinese government, China Roads and Bridges Corporation, and Kenya Railways, in facilitating the visit and driving forward these infrastructure projects.
Meza Mwanza