China-Africa Infrastructure Partnerships Yield Visible Results Across the Continent

Beijing, China – As the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) 2024 summit gets underway in Beijing, the outcomes of China-Africa infrastructure partnerships have become increasingly visible across the African continent. Over 50 heads of state, including Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto, are in attendance at the summit, which takes place from September 4.

One notable example of the success of these partnerships is the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), a key project of the Belt and Road Initiative. The SGR has positively influenced Kenya’s economic and social growth, with significant results already being seen.

By the end of May 2024, the Mombasa-Nairobi SGR had moved 2.684 million standard containers and 32.87 million metric tons of cargo. The railway has also facilitated the transport of 12.87 million passengers. Over the last seven years, the SGR has created over 74,000 jobs in Kenya and trained more than 2,800 professionals. Moreover, the project contributes around 2 percent to Kenya’s GDP growth.

The Mombasa-Nairobi SGR is just one example of the many successful infrastructure projects that have been implemented through China-Africa partnerships. These partnerships have the potential to drive economic growth, improve living standards, and increase connectivity across the African continent.

As the FOCAC 2024 summit continues, it is clear that the outcomes of these partnerships will be a key focus of discussion. With the success of projects like the Mombasa-Nairobi SGR, it is likely that these partnerships will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of Africa’s economic development.