The economic relationship between China and Kenya has evolved noticeably over the last few years, and with the establishment of the Sichuan and Chongqing Chamber of Commerce in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, trade between the two nations is expected to increase even more.
Over 30 Chinese and Kenyan companies as well as key government representatives attended the unveiling of the association in Nairobi. Speaking exclusively to CGTN, Jubilee Party Secretary General Raphael Tuju said the new body is expected to unite and empower members to form a cohesive force among domestic and overseas Chinese.
“It is a very important chamber because anytime foreigners invest in a country they face challenges and this partnership will help find out solutions to challenges that hinder trading between the two countries. And it will also help in drawing a joint grand blueprint for economic future development,” says Tuju.
Tuju further observed that Kenya has become a major example of China-Africa cooperation.
“I think it is important to appreciate China is second biggest economy in the world and it’s our responsibility to learn from them in terms of economic growth. As a country we are country we are committed to make the region a hub for investment.”
According to Rodgers Amisi, Manager of the Kenya Investment Authority, the chamber is also expected to forge a new chapter between the Chinese people working in Kenya and further the modernization process.
“China is number one in public investments and one in private investments we want to use this association as our marketing agents in China and see how we can facilitate Chinese investments who are coming in”, says Amisi.
During its launch, the Sichuan and Chongqing Chamber of Commerce contributed 1 million shillings to the Stephens Integrated School in Embakasi as means to foster community social responsibility.
“We are very humbled by this noble move”,says Zablon Karani, Headteacher of Stephen Integrated School.
The association is confident to come up with road maps that will guide future ways of doing business to increased collaborations between Kenya and China companies through harmonized trading practice.
