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As global attention focuses on geopolitical developments, China continues to strategically expand its cultural and economic influence in Kenya, fostering deeper ties through various initiatives.
While international headlines on Monday, October 13, 2025, were dominated by the release of 20 remaining living Israeli hostages by Hamas and a declared end to the Gaza war by former US President Donald Trump, China has been steadily advancing its 'soft power' agenda in Kenya. This strategic engagement, spanning cultural exchanges, educational programmes, and infrastructure development, aims to cultivate a favourable image and strengthen bilateral relations.
Diplomatic relations between Kenya and China, established in 1963 following Kenya's independence, have evolved significantly from purely political ties to a multifaceted partnership. Initially characterised by ideological solidarity and support for Kenya's developmental needs, the relationship has expanded to encompass trade, economic development, education, and political alignment, particularly concerning the One China Policy. Kenya's strategic geographic location and its role as a trade gateway in East Africa have made it a key partner within the Sino-African framework.
China's renewed push for soft power in Kenya is evident in recent high-level discussions. In March 2025, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula met with China's Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, to discuss China's continued role in Kenya's development, Kenya's commitment to the One China Policy, and Beijing's influence in the country's digital and governance transformation. China has pledged to construct Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters building, an infrastructure project with significant diplomatic weight. Furthermore, China has offered its expertise to digitise Kenya's Parliament, with Speaker Wetang'ula emphasising the goal of modernising parliamentary systems, improving efficiency, and enhancing public engagement.
Kenyan officials have consistently lauded the deepening ties. Benard Kahuthia, acting tourism secretary in Kenya's Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, highlighted the enduring partnership rooted in mutual respect and a shared vision for growth, noting China as a significant source market for tourism and a partner in infrastructure development and cultural exchange. Chinese Ambassador Guo Haiyan has described initiatives like the China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season as powerful platforms for celebrating shared values and the strong friendship between the two nations.
While China's engagement offers significant benefits, concerns about economic dependency and Chinese political values have been raised. There have also been accusations of Chinese government-backed hackers targeting Kenyan ministries and state institutions for cyber-espionage, allegedly to gather intelligence on Kenya's debt repayment strategies. China has rejected these claims. The offer to digitise Kenya's Parliament also raises questions, given past accusations of embedded surveillance capabilities in Chinese-built digital infrastructure in Africa, such as the African Union headquarters.
The full extent of China's influence through digital governance initiatives and the long-term implications of its 'top-down' soft power approach remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate. While many Kenyans view China's involvement optimistically, concerns about potential over-reliance and the impact on Kenya's sovereignty persist.
Observers will be closely watching the implementation of the pledged infrastructure projects, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters, and the progress of the parliamentary digitisation initiative. The ongoing cultural and educational exchanges will also be key indicators of China's evolving soft power in Kenya, alongside how Kenya navigates potential concerns regarding economic dependency and digital security.
