Chinese investors channel billions into Africa's energy and industrial sectors
Business
By
Benard Orwongo
| Dec 16, 2025
The Nairobi Express Way from UpperHill Nairobi on April 28, 2025.[Kanyiri Wahito, Standard]
Chinese investors are ramping up investments in Africa’s energy, transport and industrial sectors, with a strong focus on renewable power, electric mobility, manufacturing and digital infrastructure.
Key areas attracting funding include solar and wind energy projects, electric vehicles such as scooters and delivery bikes, automotive manufacturing, real estate, banking, agriculture and transport logistics.
In Kenya, Chinese-backed initiatives are targeting the development of transport corridors, digital infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare and geothermal energy.
Zimbabwe is set to benefit from a planned $100 million scooter manufacturing and assembly plant, which is expected to create about 5,000 jobs.
READ MORE
Two schools in one: Principals brace for complex CBE transition
Dispensaries to offer maternity services under SHA, says Barasa
Kenya inks Sh40 billion deal to transmit renewable power
Controversial Bill seeking to regulate churches put on hold
Wildlife census report key in increasing action
Algiers shows Africa's struggle between radical zeal and dependency
Champions Kabras Sugar out to extend Kenya Cup sweetness
MPs set to debate Bill outlawing detention of patients and bodies
G3 Rifle recovered as suspected robber lynched in Gatuanyaga, Thika
Right direction for the country, Mbadi defends Safaricom stake sale
Some African companies are also being prepared for listings on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, with plans to cross-list on Chinese exchanges within the next two years. This move is expected to give them access to Chinese equity capital. Eligible sectors include mining, fintech, banking, real estate, agriculture and industrial manufacturing.
Hong Kong–headquartered investment banking firm Treadway is facilitating these partnerships. The firm currently works with 37 Chinese investors and plans to expand the number to 100 by 2028, with each investor capable of funding projects worth up to $500 million.
Treadway said its approach prioritises public-private partnerships and long-term equity investments rather than debt financing.
The strategy has already borne fruit in South Africa, where electric vehicle and green technology manufacturer Agilitee secured funding from a Chinese investor after a delegation led by Treadway visited China alongside South African government officials.