Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, has strongly dismissed the persistent “debt trap” narrative surrounding Chinese loans in Africa, calling it misleading and harmful to development partnerships. Speaking in a recent interview with Capital FM, Guo emphasized that China’s financial support to Kenya is demand-driven, transparent, and aligned with the country’s development goals.
“There is no so-called ‘debt trap’ between China and Kenya,” Guo asserted. “China only provides loans upon request and based on development priorities like Kenya’s Vision 2030.”
She explained that China’s funding is not imposed but negotiated in good faith and targeted at transformative projects. According to data from Kenya’s National Treasury, Chinese loans account for only 13% of Kenya’s external debt, while multilateral lenders hold 55% and commercial creditors 23%.
Guo further clarified that most Chinese loans are concessional, with interest rates below 3% and without political conditions. She argued that it is unfair and economically illogical to criticize Chinese funding while lauding debt from Western countries as “investment.”
The ambassador also highlighted the impact of Chinese-funded infrastructure, such as the Standard Gauge Railway and the Nairobi Expressway, which have improved connectivity, created employment, and spurred economic activity.
Guo noted that China’s development assistance across Africa has led to the construction or improvement of over 10,000 kilometres of railway, 100,000 kilometres of roads, 1,000 bridges, and 100 ports, generating over 1.1 million jobs.
She warned against the politicization of debt and urged the international community to support Africa’s development needs without bias. “Debt should not be weaponized. Instead, global efforts should focus on reducing poverty and fostering sustainable development,” she said.
Ambassador Guo concluded by encouraging Kenyans to remain critical of narratives that could damage Kenya-China relations and undermine beneficial cooperation. She emphasized that China’s commitment remains rooted in mutual respect, shared development goals, and the long-term prosperity of Africa.
