Kenya signed a USD 185 million concessional loan agreement with the Export-Import Bank of China (China EximBank) to finance the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Project, a major initiative aimed at modernizing traffic management and improving mobility across key transport corridors.
The agreement was signed by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary (CS) John Mbadi and Ms. Zhu Jia, Deputy General Manager of China EximBank’s Sovereign Business Department.
The ceremony was witnessed by China EximBank Chairman Chen Huaiyu and Treasury Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Chris Kiptoo.
Mbadi described the ITS Project as a “critical pillar of Kenya’s integrated transport management framework,” noting that it will transform commuter experience and enhance efficiency across the country’s rapidly growing road network.
Once fully operational, the ITS system is expected to improve traffic coordination, reduce congestion, enhance road safety through real-time surveillance, shorten travel times, support data-driven enforcement of transport regulations, and strengthen the digital foundation for smart-city infrastructure.
“These efficiencies will translate into economic savings, increased productivity, and a better experience for millions of road users,” Mbadi said.
He also commended China EximBank for its longstanding partnership with Kenya, highlighting its role in financing landmark projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the Southern Bypass, Thika Road (Lot 3), the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, and the Nairobi Expressway.
“These projects remain enduring proof of what Kenya and China can accomplish together,” Mbadi added.
China EximBank Chairman Chen Huaiyu reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Kenya, stressing China’s continued support for projects that enhance connectivity, catalyse investment, and advance sustainable development.
He emphasized that the Bank views Kenya as a strategic partner and expressed confidence that the ITS Project will further strengthen bilateral ties and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s long-term development agenda.
Mbadi further highlighted recent positive developments in the Kenya–China partnership, including the successful signing of the concessional TVET Project and the approval of two new projects under Preferential Buyer’s Credit — the dualling of the Nairobi Northern Bypass and the Bosto Dam Water Supply Project.
He urged the Bank to expedite the release of shortlisted companies to ensure timely commencement of procurement.
PS Kiptoo reiterated the Government’s readiness to support China EximBank in establishing a Nairobi office, saying that a local presence would improve coordination and enhance implementation efficiency across ongoing and future infrastructure projects.
The CS also welcomed the in-principle approval for the dualling of the Muthaiga–Kiambu–Ndumberi Road, which has already received Cabinet approval, with KURA advancing procurement processes.
He reaffirmed the National Treasury’s commitment to prudent borrowing, robust development partnerships, and infrastructure programmes that underpin Kenya’s long-term economic transformation.
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