Chinese enterprises working in Kenya have been lauded for their efforts in creating jobs and enhancing knowledge transfer in various industries in the country.
According to data from the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, more than 400 Chinese businesses operating in the country have created an estimated 130,000 jobs for locals.
This was revealed during the launch of the 2018/19 Social Responsibility Report prepared by the Kenya China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA).
Speaking during the launch of the report. Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Wu Peng indicated that in total, the association invested over US$78 million to help local communities in Kenya as part of their social responsibility package.
“This social responsibility carried out by Chinese companies contribute to deepening the people to people bond between China and Kenya, laying a solid foundation for cooperation in all aspects between our two countries,” ambassador Wu said.
Foreign affairs ministry chief administrative secretary Ababu Namwamba said the CSR activities of Chinese firms are an example of shared prosperity whereby the peoples of Kenya and China are both benefiting from the relationship.
He called on Chinese firms operating Kenya to deepen the ties to foster economic growth for the country.
“I want to encourage you as creators of wealth to put a premium on opening job opportunities for young Kenyans, to put emphasis on transfer of skills and technology because if you do that these will translate into real economic development but also in helping us lift people out of poverty,” Mr Namwamba said.
According to the report, Chinese enterprises in Kenya have adopted a proactive approach to environmental impact management by incorporating energy conversation and environmental protection into their day-to-day operations.
KCETA is a non-governmental organization composed of Chinese enterprises operating in Kenya. It now has a membership of 106 enterprises.
The KCETA report, titled Working Together for a Brighter Shared Future, said Chinese firms are actively aligning their efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by placing their own development within the context of global sustainable development.
