In a significant diplomatic move, Kenya hosted bilateral talks with China on November 5, 2024, in Nairobi, marking a new chapter in the evolving relationship between the two nations. At the core of the discussions was Kenya’s request for China’s support in its bid to join the BRICS economic bloc, which currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This diplomatic engagement underscores Kenya’s ambitions to expand its global influence and strengthen its economic alliances in the Global South.

The meeting brought together Kenyan and Chinese officials to discuss strategic areas of cooperation, including trade, infrastructure, and mutual support within international organizations. With China already established as one of Kenya’s largest trade partners and a key investor in its infrastructure projects, Kenya is looking to leverage its relationship with China to gain BRICS membership, which would align it more closely with emerging economies in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

Kenya’s BRICS Ambitions

Kenya’s interest in joining BRICS highlights the country’s desire to diversify its international alliances and seek new opportunities beyond traditional Western partnerships. The BRICS bloc, which promotes economic cooperation among major emerging economies, has become an attractive platform for African nations looking to strengthen their political and economic independence. For Kenya, gaining BRICS membership could provide access to additional investment, technology transfer, and a greater voice in global economic discussions.

At the bilateral meeting, Kenya’s representatives emphasized the importance of BRICS membership in helping the country reach its development goals. They also highlighted the shared interests between Kenya and BRICS members in advocating for fairer global economic policies and a multipolar world order.

Strengthening Trade and Infrastructure Collaboration

In addition to discussing BRICS membership, the bilateral talks centered around enhancing trade and infrastructure collaboration between Kenya and China. Over the past decade, Chinese investments have fueled major infrastructure projects in Kenya, from the construction of railways to the development of ports and highways. These projects have been instrumental in supporting Kenya’s Vision 2030, an ambitious development blueprint aimed at transforming Kenya into an industrialized middle-income country.

Chinese delegates reaffirmed their commitment to Kenya’s economic growth, noting that China views Kenya as a gateway to East Africa and a strategic partner in Africa. They discussed plans to increase Chinese investments in Kenya, with a focus on sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and telecommunications. Kenya’s representatives, in turn, expressed their desire for more balanced trade between the two nations, highlighting the importance of increasing Kenya’s exports to China to address the existing trade deficit.

Mutual Support in International Affairs

Both nations also emphasized the need for stronger cooperation within international organizations. As part of its “One China” policy, Kenya has consistently supported China in international forums, while China has been a strong advocate for African nations on issues related to global trade and climate action. Kenya and China expressed mutual support on various issues, including climate change, debt restructuring, and economic reforms.

China’s representatives pledged to support Kenya’s bid for BRICS membership, citing Kenya’s growing influence in Africa and its role in regional stability. By joining BRICS, Kenya would be the second African country in the bloc, alongside South Africa, further amplifying the voice of the African continent in global affairs.

Potential Impact of BRICS Membership for Kenya

If Kenya successfully joins BRICS, it could bring numerous benefits to the country’s economy. Membership in BRICS would potentially open doors to new financing options, reduce reliance on Western aid, and increase Kenya’s bargaining power in the international arena. Furthermore, Kenya’s inclusion would contribute to BRICS’ goal of promoting a more balanced and inclusive global economic system.

Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Minister expressed optimism about the outcomes of the talks, noting that Kenya’s BRICS aspirations align with its commitment to regional integration and South-South cooperation. Analysts view this bilateral meeting as a critical step in Kenya’s broader foreign policy strategy, which seeks to engage with both Eastern and Western powers to advance national interests.

As Kenya continues to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties with China, the possibility of BRICS membership signals a shift in its global positioning. With China’s support, Kenya’s journey towards joining BRICS may set a precedent for other African nations aiming to increase their influence within the Global South.