A general view of Nairobi Expressway on April 29, 2023. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]
As China marked its 75th anniversary on October 1, 2024, the occasion offered a moment to reflect on the country’s incredible transformation and its evolving global influence.
For Kenya, China’s rise has been particularly impactful, cementing itself as the largest trading partner and a key development ally. From infrastructure to technology and trade, the Sino-Kenyan partnership stands as a testament to the benefits of mutual cooperation.
The People’s Republic of China was established on October 1, 1949, under the leadership of Mao Zedong, following the end of a protracted civil war. Over the subsequent decades, China embarked on a path of modernisation, moving from a largely agrarian society to becoming the world’s second-largest economy by 2024.
China’s economic reforms, starting in 1978, opened its doors to foreign investment, initiated industrial growth, and integrated the country into the global economy. This evolution has not only transformed China domestically but also made it a pivotal player in global development, particularly through its engagement with Africa.
