Introduction

While diplomatic ties between Kenya and China have existed for over 60 years, their friendly relationship dates back even further, to the Ming dynasty era (1368-1644), when the Chinese explorer Zheng He made multiple visits to Kenya. Formal diplomatic relations between China and Kenya were established just two days after Kenya gained independence on December 14, 1963. Since then, diplomatic ties flourished and on August 20, 1964, a Kenyan delegation visited Mao Zedong, the then Chairman of the Communist Party of China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Despite a temporary suspension of diplomatic ties in 1967, which were later re-established in 1978, the relationship between the two countries has grown significantly, especially in terms of economic and investment partnerships, making China Kenya’s largest trading partner. Notable events include high-profile meetings during President Daniel Moi’s tenure in May 1994, followed by visits from subsequent Kenyan presidents like Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and the current President William Ruto, who have all pursued a ”Look East Policy” towards China.

Over the past decade, Kenya has received substantial foreign aid from China, aimed at developing infrastructure and boosting trade. Kenya has also been a key entry point for China’s Belt and Road Initiative into Africa. Through its ”China Approach” development assistance, China has made significant contributions to Kenya’s infrastructural development, including railways, roads, water sources, renewable energy projects, ports, education, and capacity building, all geared towards enhancing the country’s economic and social development.

This analysis is based on policy documents and project reports from both the Kenyan and Chinese governments, aiming to evaluate the progress and current status of Sino-Kenya relations across various sectors, including economic partnership, academic mobility, capacity building, and sustainable development cooperation.