\n Transport Secretary Davis Chirchir told lawmakers on Thursday that Kenya plans to raise as much as $4 billion by securitizing a railway levy to fund the completion of the project.\n <\/p>\n
\n \u201cWe are determined to finish the railway without accruing additional debt,\u201d Chirchir said, according to Bloomberg.\n <\/p>\n
China\u2019s fading footprint in Kenya\u2019s industrial sector<\/p>\n
\n China\u2019s industrial and infrastructure presence across Africa has been extensive, with over $120 billion in government-backed loans deployed under the BRI to finance ports, railways, and energy projects.\n <\/p>\n
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\n In Kenya, however, the influence is waning. Rising debt concerns, tighter financial conditions, and growing political scrutiny have slowed new Chinese-backed projects.\n <\/p>\n
\n Analysts note that Kenya\u2019s move to securitize a railway levy instead of taking new loans demonstrates a push for financial independence<\/a> while completing strategic infrastructure. \u201cKenya wants to retain control over its industrial agenda and avoid debt traps,\u201d a Nairobi-based infrastructure consultant told Bloomberg.\n <\/p>\n \n The railway is seen as critical for Kenya\u2019s logistics and industrial ambitions, linking inland production hubs to Nairobi and improving trade corridors.\n <\/p>\n