The signing of a USD 185 million concessional Loan Agreement to finance the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Project.
This morning, CS Hon. FCPA John Mbadi EGH, hosted Mr. Chen Huaiyu, Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of China (China EximBank), for the signing of a USD 185 million concessional Loan Agreement to finance the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Project.
The Cabinet Secretary said that the ITS Project is a critical pillar of Kenya’s integrated transport management framework, designed to modernize mobility across key transport corridors.
.The agreement was signed by Hon. Mbadi and Ms. Zhu Jia, Deputy General Manager of the Sovereign Business Department, and was witnessed by China EximBank Chairman Mr. Chen Huaiyu and PS Dr. Chris Kiptoo CBS
Once fully operational, ITS will:
• Improve traffic coordination
• Reduce congestion
• Enhance road safety through real-time surveillance
• Shorten travel times
• Support data-driven enforcement of transport regulations
• Strengthen the digital backbone for smart-city infrastructure
Hon. Mbadi emphasized that these efficiencies will translate into economic savings, increased productivity, and a better experience for millions of road users.
He commended China EximBank for its consistent partnership, acknowledging its instrumental role in supporting landmark infrastructure projects that continue to anchor Kenya’s economic transformation. These include:
• The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR)
• The Southern Bypass
• Thika Road (Lot 3)
• The Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital
• The Nairobi Expressway
“These projects remain enduring proof of what Kenya and China can accomplish together,” the CS said.
Mr. Chen Huaiyu reaffirmed China EximBank’s strong commitment to deepening cooperation with Kenya, noting China’s continued keenness to promote economic and trade relations that deliver concrete benefits to the Kenyan people. He emphasized that the Bank regards Kenya as a strategic partner and stands ready to support projects that enhance connectivity, catalyse investment, and advance sustainable economic development. He expressed confidence that the ITS Project will further strengthen bilateral cooperation and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s long-term development agenda.
The National Treasury CS also highlighted several recent positive developments that demonstrate the maturity of the partnership, including:
• The successful signing of the concessional TVET Project
• 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 encouraged the Bank to expedite the release of shortlisted companies to allow procurement to commence without delay.
Principal Secretary of the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, affirmed the Government’s readiness to provide all necessary support to facilitate China EximBank’s establishment of an office in Nairobi, noting that a local presence would enhance coordination, improve efficiency, and strengthen cooperation across ongoing and future projects.
The CS additionally appreciated the in-principle approval for the dualling of the Muthaiga–Kiambu–Ndumberi Road, which has secured Cabinet approval, with KURA now advancing procurement for the contractor. He reaffirmed the National Treasury’s commitment to prudent borrowing, robust development partnerships, and the advancement of infrastructure programmes that reinforce Kenya’s long-term economic transformation