Story perspectives

Kenya Revives Controversial Railway Project After Six-Year Delay

3/21/2026

Center

Kenya Resumes Railway Project

Kenya has restarted its multibillion-dollar railway extension project after a six-year delay caused by funding issues from China.
The new phase will be financed through revenue securitization, with construction managed by a Chinese contractor.
President William Ruto highlighted the project's significance, addressing criticisms of it being a "railway to nowhere."
Critics view the stalled project as evidence of China's "debt trap diplomacy," which China denies.
In 2024, China pledged $50 billion for investments in Africa, while Kenya aims to raise funds through a railway development levy.

Right

China's UN Influence

The House Select Committee on China warns Beijing is leveraging financial contributions and personnel placements to influence United Nations (UN).
The report notes China uses UN peacekeeping missions, including South Sudan, to advance its interests.
It notes China's UN funding has risen from 2% to over 20%, boosting its influence.
The committee raises concerns about China placing nationals in UN roles and urges U.S. leadership to counter influence.

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Kenya Resumes Railway Project

Kenya has restarted its multibillion-dollar railway extension project after a six-year delay caused by funding issues from China.
The new phase will be financed through revenue securitization, with construction managed by a Chinese contractor.
President William Ruto highlighted the project's significance, addressing criticisms of it being a "railway to nowhere."
Critics view the stalled project as evidence of China's "debt trap diplomacy," which China denies.
In 2024, China pledged $50 billion for investments in Africa, while Kenya aims to raise funds through a railway development levy.

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