An expressway built by a Chinese enterprise in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, started trial operation on Saturday, the Xinhua News Agency reported, showcasing closer cooperation between China and Kenya under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The expressway, constructed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), connects the country’s important landmarks from downtown Nairobi to an international airport, covering a total length of 27.1 kilometers.

The road, a flagship project under the China-proposed BRI, marks the enhanced cooperation between China and Kenya and the broader African continent, experts noted.

The project is the first toll road in the country, developed by the CRBC in partnership with the Kenyan government, with a total construction and operation period of 30 years. After 30 years, the entire expressway, equipment, and technology will be handed over to the Kenyan government free of charge.

James Macharia, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure Housing, Urban Development and Public Works, said during the ceremony that the Nairobi Expressway is one of the best infrastructure projects in Africa.

A senior official from the CRBC noted that once in operation, the Nairobi Expressway can significantly reduce the traffic congestion in the city, shortening the commuting time between the city and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. 

The project has won praise for creating a large number of local jobs, promoting the city’s economic and social development for the benefit of the local community.

According to media reports, the Nairobi Expressway has created more than 6,000 jobs throughout its construction, benefiting hundreds of subcontractors and local construction-material suppliers.

Global Times