KCETA pledges greater commitment to Kenya’s growth in latest CSR Report

Marking the 60th anniversary of China-Kenya diplomatic ties and the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative in 2023, the partnership between the two nations continues to deepen.

The upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing (September 2024) injects renewed vitality into this relationship. Chinese enterprises in Kenya are aligning their CSR efforts with Kenya’s Big Four Agenda and Vision 2030 to foster a stronger, shared future.

Promoting Local Employment

Chinese enterprises are creating pathways for local employment and development, contributing to Kenya’s economic growth. Between 2022 and 2023, over 60,000 Kenyan employees were hired, with a localization ratio exceeding 90%. Notable initiatives, such as the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway and the Africa Tech Challenge, have provided jobs and vocational skills training for Kenyan youth.

Infrastructure Development

Chinese enterprises are integral to Kenya’s infrastructure growth. Key projects include:

• Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (472 km)
• Nairobi-Naivasha Standard Gauge Railway (120 km)
• Nairobi Expressway
• Garissa Solar Power Plant (50 MW)
• Kipeto Wind Power Station (102 MW)
• Loiyangalani-Suswa High Voltage Power Line (400 kV)
• Thwake Multipurpose Water Development Program
• Karimenu II Dam Municipal Water Supply Project
• Park Road Affordable Housing Project (1,370 units)

These projects continue to support economic integration, industrial development, and social progress in Kenya.

Fostering Cultural Exchange

KCETA promotes cultural exchange to strengthen China-Kenya relations. Initiatives include:

• “My China Story” Speech Contest: Providing a platform for Kenyan employees to share their experiences.
• Chinese New Year Cultural Events: Organized by AVIC International Holding Corporation’s GTC project to foster mutual understanding.
• Monthly “Let’s Talk” Events: Hosted by Africa Star Railway Operation Company to discuss shared cultures and the Belt and Road Initiative.

Environmental Protection

Chinese enterprises are committed to green development and environmental conservation. Initiatives include:

• STECOL Corporation: Promotes eco-friendly construction practices.
• China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (Kenya) Ltd: Planted over 500 fruit trees and advocated for environmental awareness.

Public Welfare and Charity

KCETA encourages balancing environmental, social, and economic factors. Key contributions include:

• Mcedo Beijing School: Donations exceeding KES 1.5 billion from 2022 to 2023 to improve education in Mathare.
• Drought Relief: KES 10 million donated to the Kenya National Drought Management Authority to combat drought conditions.

Future Commitment

Zhou Zhencheng, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, reaffirmed KCETA’s commitment to advancing China-Kenya cooperation, particularly in line with the 2024 FOCAC Summit’s objectives.

The CSR Report launch event was attended by Zhou Zhencheng, Mohamed Daghar (CBS, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Roads and Transport), Shakeel Shabbir (Chairman, Kenya-China Parliamentary Friendship Group), and Amb. Jane Makori (Deputy Director General, Asia and Pacific Directorate).

Employees and program beneficiaries also shared their experiences during the event.