In a visit to Beijing, Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his commitment to forging stronger ties with China, amidst the backdrop of a global trade conflict spurred by Washington. Ruto’s trip, marking his third since taking office in 2022, underscores Kenya’s interest in strengthening relations with China as both nations navigate a complex trade environment exacerbated by U.S.-imposed tariffs.
During his visit, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s interest in China’s developmental achievements, stating that Kenya aims to learn from China’s transformative governance, economic advancements, and global leadership. He extended his gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping for providing significant financial support in various sectors, and for plans to develop a new complex for Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ruto, who rose from modest beginnings and now champions the welfare of disadvantaged Kenyans, has historically leaned towards Western alliances. However, given the recent shifts in U.S. policy and increased tariffs, Ruto is now seeking to bolster ties with Beijing. This change in stance aligns with China’s interest in fostering cooperation across developing nations and finding solutions to U.S. trade barriers affecting Chinese exports.
Kenya is a notable participant in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, an expansive project designed to enhance connectivity across Africa, Asia, and Europe through substantial infrastructure investments. The initiative has already seen China contributing substantial resources to the development of Kenyan infrastructure, including roads, ports, and a strategic railway linking Mombasa to Nairobi.
During a speech at Peking University, Ruto criticized the existing global governance structures, particularly the U.N. Security Council, labeling them outdated and dysfunctional. He warned that current U.S. tariffs could serve as the final catalyst to major shifts in the global order.
African countries, including Kenya, face a precarious economic environment with the ongoing tariff disputes, given the significant export markets in the U.S. while China remains their largest supplier. Amidst these challenges, Kenya and China have taken concrete steps to deepen their partnership, signing agreements that span security, technology, economic collaboration, rail infrastructure, and the establishment of a new Kenyan consulate in Guangzhou.