PS Sing’oei: China loan rejection claims baseless
His remarks triggered widespread public concern and online debate about the transparency of Kenya’s international financial dealings.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has strongly refuted allegations that Kenya was denied a new loan by China, describing the claims as “baseless” and without any factual foundation.
The controversy was sparked by Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi, who claimed—without presenting any evidence—that the Kenyan government had sought a loan from China using mineral-rich lands in Taita Taveta as collateral.
His remarks triggered widespread public concern and online debate about the transparency of Kenya’s international financial dealings.
However, PS Sing’oei was quick to dismiss the assertions, stating that the Kenyan government has not engaged in any such negotiations involving national assets as security for loans.
"These claims are unfounded and should not be taken seriously," he said.
This is not the first time questions have been raised regarding Kenya’s financial relationship with China.
Over the years, critics have expressed concern about the country’s growing debt and the nature of its engagement with the Asian economic giant.
However, government officials have consistently maintained that Kenya’s dealings with China are transparent and mutually beneficial.
In a related context, former Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma clarified in 2019 that Kenya’s visit to Beijing was not to pursue further funding for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), but to focus on other areas of cooperation, such as trade and investment.
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Zhou Pingjian has also weighed in on the broader conversation, reiterating that Chinese loans to Kenya are based on mutual consultation and are tied to specific projects.
He emphasized that China does not impose financial agreements on Kenya.
In conclusion, the Kenyan government maintains that its partnership with China remains strong and grounded in mutual respect and benefit.
The recent claims, according to PS Sing’oei, are misleading and detract from the real progress being made through international cooperation.