Kenyan President William Ruto has pledged to deepen relations with China, a move that signals a shift in Kenya’s diplomatic strategy amid ongoing global trade tensions. His remarks came during a five-day visit to China—his third trip to Beijing since assuming office in 2022.
The visit follows comments Ruto made earlier warning that a global trade war, fueled by U.S. tariffs, could deal a “death blow” to the current international order. Against this backdrop, both Kenya and China are seeking to strengthen cooperation, especially as Washington and Beijing continue their economic standoff.
Ruto expressed admiration for China’s progress in governance and economic development, emphasizing Kenya’s interest in learning from China’s experience. He also extended gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping for financial support across various sectors including healthcare, education, and emergency relief, and acknowledged China’s commitment to construct a new headquarters for Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Initially, Ruto leaned toward stronger relations with Western powers and the United States. However, changing dynamics in U.S. foreign policy—marked by a retreat from African engagement and the imposition of new tariffs under President Donald Trump—have prompted Kenya to pivot toward Beijing.
During the meeting, President Xi emphasized the importance of China-Kenya ties, saying China is committed to enhancing solidarity and collaboration among developing nations, particularly in the Global South. This aligns with China’s broader aim to counter the effects of rising trade barriers imposed by the U.S.
Kenya remains a vital part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a major infrastructure program aimed at boosting connectivity between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Chinese investments have already contributed significantly to Kenyan development, funding projects like roads, seaports, and the major railway line connecting Mombasa and Nairobi.
Speaking at Peking University earlier in the week, Ruto criticized the current structure of global governance, including the U.N. Security Council, calling it outdated and ineffective. He added that recent U.S. tariffs may mark the collapse of the existing global order.
These tariffs pose a significant challenge for African economies, especially for countries like Kenya that export goods to the U.S., one of its largest markets. At the same time, China remains Kenya’s top import partner.
Following high-level talks, Kenya and China signed several new agreements covering areas such as security, technology, economic cooperation, railway development, and the opening of a new Kenyan consulate in Guangzhou, highlighting a renewed commitment to long-term strategic partnership.
