Role of Chinese Economic Diplomacy in Fostering Infrastructural Development in Kenya Since 1963
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Date
2023-11-13
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journal of Empirical Research https://ajernet.net
Abstract
This study investigated the role of Chinese economic diplomacy in fostering infrastructural development in Kenya since 1963. The
focus was on how this partnership manifests itself in infrastructure development. This study was anchored on power theory,
modernization, and dependency theories, which were triangulated to inform the conceptual framework of the study. This study
adopted historical, cross-cultural, and survey research designs. Questionnaires, interview guides, and focus group discussions
were the data collection instruments. The study adopted multiple sources of data, ranging from primary to secondary. Both
quantitative and qualitative techniques were used for data analysis and presentation. The data obtained was presented in
percentages, pie charts, bar graphs, and tables. The study found that the most popular principle in China-Kenya relations was
that of mutual benefit. This study further revealed that Kenya is still largely reliant on its traditional donors for funding and that
its relations with China have even strengthened its ties with Western countries. The findings further revealed that Chinese
investment in Kenya's development of infrastructure was significantly beneficial to Kenya's informal sector because the lower
cadre of employees, who are the majority, are acquiring skills that make them start their own businesses. Kenya should further
strengthen its ties with China. Kenyan traders should take advantage of the recent lowering of export tariffs by China to
encourage Kenyans to export more products to China. The Kenyan government, through its relevant agencies, should also put in
place regulatory measures to ensure that Chinese imports are of standard quality. China should offer more aid to Kenya to
mitigate the deficit, or in certain cases, curtail Chinese exports to reduce the imbalance.