China boosts support for Mathare's Mcedo Beijing School with new renovations, scholarships

The Chinese Embassy in Kenya and the Kenya–China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA) have renewed their support for Mcedo Beijing School in Mathare, unveiling a second phase of renovations and a new round of scholarships for students.

Speaking during a donation and scholarship award ceremony at the school, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said the relationship between the institution, the Embassy, and Chinese businesses has grown steadily over the years, describing the school as “an oasis of hope” for families in the area.

The latest upgrades include painting of classrooms, improved lighting, tiled floors, roofing repairs, and new desks, lockers, chairs, and fire extinguishers. The Embassy also supplied textbooks, science apparatus, a school printer, and bedding for pre-primary learners.

KCETA Chairman Yu Xiaodong said Chinese companies operating in Kenya have supported the school since 2007, and noted that a major fundraising drive in 2012 raised KSh 55 million for expansion — increasing enrolment from about 200 to more than 500 learners.

The association and the Embassy jointly contributed over KSh 11 million this year for the latest renovations and supplies.

Mcedo Beijing School Director Benedict Kiage said the partnership has opened educational pathways for many students. In 2023, three learners from the school secured opportunities to study in Chinese universities. In 2024, 37 scholarships were awarded, with an additional 20 scholarships issued this year.

Ambassador Guo said the continued cooperation reflects broader China–Kenya relations, which were elevated earlier this year to a “Community with a Shared Future” during President William Ruto’s state visit to Beijing.