Why Ruto wants SGR deal extended to Uganda, DRC

President William Ruto at an investors roundtable in Beijing, China. [PCS]

President William Ruto now says discussions are underway between Kenya, Uganda, DR Congo, and Congo Brazzaville to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

Speaking during an investor's roundtable in Beijing, China, Ruto said this will open up Kenya and the larger African region for business while connecting Chinese investors to the continent.

The Head of State avers that extending SGR past Naivasha will open Kenya and East Africa up for more business opportunities and investment, hence driving economic growth.

“ The reason why we are discussing with China extending the SGR deal beyond Naivasha into Uganda, DRC, all the way to Congo Brazzaville is because we want to connect the eastern Coast of Africa to the western coast of Africa,” said Ruto.

President Ruto believes SGR extension beyond Naivasha will benefit both Kenya and China. pic.twitter.com/xnsEb8W382

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He revealed that he has already had a conversation with the Presidents of Uganda, DRC, and Congo Brazzaville, and agreed on the benefits of the SGR deal for their respective countries.

“We have all agreed on the need to extend this infrastructure as a means of facilitating trade across the continent and making sure companies in China and beyond who set up in Kenya have access to the market,” he said.

Ruto is in China for a three-day visit where he is attending the Belt Road Initiative forum.

He added that Kenya will not shy away when presented with investment opportunities, as it seeks to also promote its digital economy.

“Kenya is ready for business. Its strategic location, rich history of stability, and overly revolutionary technology have turned the country into one of the world’s top investment spots.”