Kenya Strengthens Security Ties with China Amid Infrastructure Expansion

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 9 December 2025 - In a move underscoring the importance of safeguarding foreign investments and personnel, Internal Security and National Administration and Coordination Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo on Tuesday hosted a delegation from the People’s Republic of China, led by Mr Zhang Xumin, Deputy Director General for Security Cooperation.

The high-level briefing focused on the security of Kenya–China bilateral projects and the protection of Chinese citizens and workers operating across the country.

The discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance security protocols around key infrastructure developments, reflecting Kenya’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive environment for foreign investment.

PS Omollo emphasised the deployment of multi-agency teams to secure project sites, including personnel from the National Police Service, Immigration and Citizen Services, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), and other relevant bodies.

“Kenya remains steadfast in safeguarding Chinese personnel and investments, ensuring that our partnership continues to thrive within a secure and stable environment,” PS Omollo stated.

The meeting reviewed current security measures, identifying both achievements and areas where cooperation could be deepened.

For China, the briefing provided assurance regarding the safety of its nationals and the continuity of its investment projects in Kenya. Mr. Zhang Xumin noted that close collaboration on security matters is a cornerstone for sustaining long-term bilateral projects and fostering mutual trust between the two countries.

Kenya–China cooperation has historically centered on major infrastructure projects, ranging from road networks and railways to energy and industrial initiatives.

The scale of these developments often brings unique security challenges, making such high-level engagements critical.

Multi-agency coordination, as highlighted during the meeting, ensures real-time monitoring of project sites, rapid response capabilities, and comprehensive risk mitigation strategies.

The session also served as a platform to explore avenues for strengthening intelligence sharing, personnel protection protocols, and contingency planning, reflecting a proactive approach to emerging security concerns.

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"This aligns with Kenya’s broader strategy of safeguarding both local and foreign stakeholders while maintaining an investment-friendly climate," the PS explained.

Observers note that the meeting reflects an evolving phase in Kenya–China relations, where security cooperation is increasingly integral to bilateral engagement. By addressing potential threats and reinforcing operational coordination, both countries are signaling their intent to maintain seamless execution of ongoing and future projects.

The presence of multiple government agencies during the briefing demonstrates Kenya’s integrated approach to security management.

Agencies are tasked not only with law enforcement but also with safeguarding infrastructure, regulating immigration, and ensuring project continuity.

This holistic approach mirrors best practices in international security cooperation for large-scale investment projects.

Analysts suggest that such engagements will likely strengthen investor confidence, with China viewing Kenya as a secure partner for expanding its Belt and Road Initiative investments in the region.

Meanwhile, Kenya benefits from enhanced safety protocols that protect critical infrastructure and the workforce driving national development.

As Kenya continues to host an expanding portfolio of Chinese-funded projects, regular high-level security consultations such as today’s meeting are expected to become standard practice.

They provide a structured framework for addressing challenges proactively while deepening mutual trust and collaboration.

The outcome of today’s briefing underscores the shared priority of Kenya and China: ensuring that strategic bilateral projects are executed efficiently, securely, and sustainably, thereby reinforcing a robust foundation for long-term economic partnership.