The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will significantly contribute to Africa’s future development ambitions, according to Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mudavadi pointed out that the Chinese-sponsored Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has become an essential tool for Africa in achieving the vision of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Several countries are engaging with China, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative. The BRI is something that is so important and dear to Africa because we are talking about AfCFTA and trade must work with enhanced connectivity,” he stated
Mudavadi noted that the BRI is an extensive programme with promising prospects for the continent, particularly as it has facilitated major infrastructure development projects. He said expansion of roads, railways, ports, fibre optics, and new technologies will address challenges such as lack of connectivity in Africa, and improve supply chain efficiency and trade.
He pointed out that this was the reason why many African capitals are reinforcing their relationships with Beijing.
“Judging from the Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit last year, China is a strong partner to the African continent,” he remarked, expressing hope that China will continue to support various development initiatives in Africa.
“China’s voice is very strong and we hope that it can amplify it even more to support Africa,” he added.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary noted that Kenya has already reaped benefits from BRI-funded projects. Looking ahead, Mudavadi confirmed that Nairobi will continue engaging with Beijing to secure support for projects that can positively impact the country’s development, particularly through job creation.
“From Kenya’s perspective, we have excellent relations with China, and we are looking at extending the Standard Gauge Railway line from Naivasha to the Uganda border, for instance. We are also looking at how we can expand the main road artery from Nairobi to Mau Summit to the border,” Mudavadi remarked.
“These are critical areas, among others, where we will be happy if we are able to find common ground and be able to move forward,” he added.
According to Africa’s Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is the African Union’s flagship project, aiming to provide a roadmap for achieving sustainable and inclusive development across the continent.
Through AfCFTA, Africa seeks to eliminate trade barriers between member countries, facilitate business operations within Africa, create a unified market for goods and services, support inclusive socio-economic development, help nations withstand external shocks, and enhance Africa’s trading position in the global market.
