Nairobi — The Kenya China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA) has reported that Chinese companies in Kenya employed over 60,000 Kenyans in 2022-2023, achieving a localization ratio exceeding 90 percent.

Releasing its fourth Social Responsibility Report for 2022-2023, KCETA pledged increased contributions by its 104 member companies to Kenya's economic and social development.

Key initiatives, such as the Africa Tech Challenge and the Standard Gauge Railway, have created significant employment opportunities while offering skill-training programs for Kenyan youth.

Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar emphasized the mutual benefits of the Kenya-China partnership, which he said has spurred economic, social, and infrastructural development.

"Kenya has benefitted in many ways, through the SGR, Expressway, and other developments," he noted.

Zhou Zhencheng, Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, highlighted the success of China-Kenya cooperation over the past decade.

He said bilateral trade has flourished, fostering local economic growth and transforming Kenya's infrastructure.

Key projects by KCETA members include the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, Nairobi-Naivasha Standard Gauge Railway, Nairobi Expressway, and Garissa Solar Power Plant, which continue to bolster Kenya's development.

Zhou also noted that Chinese firms are promoting cultural exchange, green development, and modernization efforts under the Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to strengthen the China-Kenya bond and foster a shared future.