President William Ruto has emphasized the transformative impact of BRI projects on Africa’s infrastructure and economic growth during his keynote address at the High-Level Meeting on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The event themed “Pursuing High-Quality Belt and Road Cooperation: A Platform for Modernisation Featuring Planning, Building, and Benefiting Together,” Ruto underscored the significance of the BRI in enhancing Africa’s connectivity and development prospects.
“Thanks to the BRI, Africa’s emerging connectivity profile aligns perfectly with our continent’s aspirations as the future global leader,” Ruto said.
He highlighted the Trans-Africa Highway Network and the Great North Road, which collectively cover nearly 70,000 kilometers of quality infrastructure, as pivotal in transforming Africa’s transport connectivity.
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The President noted that the BRI has notably improved Kenya’s geostrategic positioning, turning it into a potential global hub for logistics, trade, investment, and ICT.
He pointed out the completion of key projects, including the standard gauge railway, which will alleviate the logistical burden on road networks and enhance regional and Pan-African integration.
Ruto expressed enthusiasm for the High-Level Meeting, which aims to facilitate systematic engagement among participants.
He anticipates valuable discussions on progress, insights, and private sector investment opportunities, alongside the strategic implications of the African Railway Development Masterplan.