This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
Kenya has become a hub for Chinese investment, with over 106 Chinese companies operating in the country, employing nearly 95% of their workforce locally.
According to a report by the Kenya China Economic and Trade Association (KCETA), last year alone, its affiliate member enterprises created more than 50,000 jobs for Kenyans, up from 42,000 in 2016.
However, the report also highlights concerns about labor practices, with some Chinese firms accused of having racist attitudes and unfair treatment of workers.
Foreign Affairs Chief Administrative Secretary Ababu Namwamba commended the firms for creating jobs, but urged them to observe ethical business practices.
Recently, a Chinese national, Liu Jiaqi, was deported for racial slurs against his Kenyan colleagues, sparking concerns about the treatment of workers in Chinese firms.
As the Kenyan government continues to take loans from China, there are calls for greater scrutiny of labor practices and treatment of workers in Chinese firms operating in the country.
