Chinese vice president Han Zheng. [File Courtesy]Kenya is bracing itself for fresh economic pacts with China after Vice President Han Zheng arrived in Nairobi on Sunday, embarking on a high-profile African tour that underscores Beijing’s strategic focus on East Africa. “Beijing attaches outsized importance to Nairobi as a gateway for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) expansion,” said Ian Njoroge, a Nairobi-based economist. In 2024, the trade imbalance saw Kenya import Sh729.2 billion ($4.44 billion) from China, while exporting only Sh33.1 billion ($202 million). As Han Zheng begins his meetings, Kenya’s dual-track strategy thrives.

Source: Standard Digital March 22, 2026 21:34 UTC