Kenya has made its position clear by fully supporting China’s One-China policy. During President William Ruto’s four-day state visit to China, the government openly rejected any idea of Taiwanese independence. This firm stand sends a message that Kenya is strengthening its ties with Beijing, even as global tensions between powerful countries continue to rise.
The government said it views Taiwan as an inseparable part of China and supports efforts by the Chinese government to fully reunify the country. By doing this, Kenya is siding with China’s political and strategic goals. The move shows Kenya’s willingness to deepen both diplomatic and economic ties with Beijing, which has become one of the country’s biggest creditors and trade partners in recent years.
The timing of this decision matters. It comes at a point when China’s relationship with the United States is tense, especially over Taiwan. While the U.S. officially recognizes the One-China policy, it still supports Taiwan through military deals and economic partnerships.
Kenya’s open support for China could be seen as picking a side in a larger geopolitical conflict, one that could have long-term effects on its relationships with Western nations.This puts Kenya in a tricky situation. On one hand, it needs China for financial support, infrastructure projects, and trade.
On the other hand, Kenya also benefits from partnerships with the West, especially through aid, investment, and trade agreements with the U.S. and European Union.
Balancing these relationships will be a difficult task for Kenyan diplomacy moving forward. Across Africa, many countries have also been moving closer to China. Beijing has been offering loans, building roads and railways, and providing development support with fewer conditions than Western nations.
Kenya’s recent statement fits into this trend, where countries feel they can benefit more by cooperating with China’s global plans.
Meanwhile, China continues to increase its pressure on Taiwan. Military exercises near the island and political statements from Chinese officials are seen as threats to anyone who supports Taiwanese independence. This includes foreign governments that engage too closely with Taipei. Kenya’s support for China could be seen as an effort to avoid falling on the wrong side of this global power struggle.
