China reaffirms commitment to investments in Tatu City
By Mathew Ndungu, July 26, 2025China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic ties with Kenya through continued investment and collaboration between the two countries’ public and private sectors.
Speaking during a visit to Tatu City in Ruiru, Kiambu County, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan emphasised the growing role of Chinese enterprises in Kenya’s economic transformation.
She noted that the Chinese government is actively encouraging companies to expand their footprint in Kenya and across Africa, with job creation and industrial growth as key priorities.
“Tatu City is a prime example of how Kenya-China cooperation can yield tangible development. The presence of Chinese companies here is not only a symbol of strengthened bilateral relations but also a contributor to local employment and industrial innovation,” Ambassador Haiyan said.
The Kenya’s flagship Special Economic Zone (SEZ) currently hosts seven Chinese companies with a cumulative investment of over USD 400 million.
These firms, which operate across sectors such as textiles, healthcare, construction, renewable energy, and real estate, have so far generated more than 10,000 jobs.
Among the notable Chinese companies operating in Tatu City are FullCare Medical SEZ, Tianlong Cylinder Company, Stecol Corporation (a subsidiary of PowerChina), Sinotruk Kenya, Peonystar Kenya Limited, and Kyanite Investment.
The firms have established local manufacturing and service hubs, reducing Kenya’s reliance on imports and contributing to skills transfer and local value addition.
Ambassador Haiyan’s visit comes at a time when China remains one of Kenya’s top trading partners and infrastructure financiers.
However, the trade balance between the two countries continues to tilt heavily in China’s favour, a gap that Kenya hopes to narrow through increased value-added exports and industrial cooperation.
Stephen Jennings, Founder and CEO of Rendeavour, the developer behind Tatu City, said the organisation has made deliberate efforts over the past three years to attract Chinese investors.
“China is a critical partner in Tatu City’s growth. We’ve engaged directly with Chinese stakeholders to understand their priorities and reduce entry barriers. Our SEZ model is designed for speed, security, and long-term sustainability,” Jennings said.
He added that Tatu City’s strategic approach includes a dedicated China desk to address language, legal, and cultural challenges that often hinder cross-border investment.