MICHAEL: What Kenya's political class need to learn from China

As the nation grapples with issues such as corruption, infrastructural deficits, and uneven wealth distribution, it becomes imperative to look beyond its borders for lessons that can catalyze change. 

One such country that has demonstrated remarkable economic growth and governance strategies is China.

Despite its unique political context, the lessons drawn from China's experience can provide invaluable insights for Kenya's political class.

China's economic transformation over the past few decades is often lauded as one of the most significant success stories in modern history.

This transformation was not merely the result of market liberalisation, but rather a systematic and strategic approach to governance and economic management.

For Kenya's political class, the first lesson to learn from China is the importance of a realisable long-term vision.

China's leadership has consistently emphasized long-term planning, exemplified by its Five-Year Plans, which outline clear economic objectives and priorities.

In contrast, Kenya has often faced challenges due to short-term political considerations that hinder strategic planning.

A commitment to long-term goals would enable Kenya to chart a sustainable path towards economic development, focusing on infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

Furthermore, China’s focus on infrastructure development as a cornerstone of its economic policy offers another critical lesson.

The rapid expansion of transportation networks, energy production, and urban development in China has facilitated its industrialisation and economic growth.

For Kenya, investing in infrastructure is essential not only to improve connectivity and efficiency, but also to attract foreign investment and enhance the overall quality of life for its citizens.

The government must prioritise long-term infrastructure projects and ensure that they are executed transparently and efficiently, minimising corruption and mismanagement.

A well-developed infrastructure framework can serve as a catalyst for economic activity, create jobs, and elevate living standards.

Governance practices in China also provide key insights for Kenya. The centralised decision-making process in China allows for swift implementation of policies and reforms, which is often lacking in Kenya due to bureaucratic inefficiencies and political infighting.

While Kenya operates within a multiparty democracy, fostering an environment where critical decisions can be made and executed efficiently is crucial. This does not imply abandoning democratic principles, but rather enhancing institutional frameworks to ensure that they can respond effectively to national challenges.

Strengthening public institutions, promoting meritocracy, and establishing clear accountability mechanisms can help cultivate a governance culture that prioritizes the common good over political patronage.

Additionally, Kenya's political class can learn from China’s approach to poverty alleviation and social welfare. China has lifted millions out of poverty through targeted social programmes and inclusive economic policies that prioritise equitable growth.

In contrast, Kenya continues to grapple with significant income inequality and poverty levels that disproportionately affect marginalised communities.

The government must adopt policies that promote inclusive growth, ensuring that economic benefits are distributed equitably.

This includes investing in education and skills training, supporting small and medium enterprises, and creating social safety nets for vulnerable populations. 

By prioritising the well-being of all citizens, Kenya can build a more resilient economy that withstands external shocks and fosters social cohesion.

Moreover, China’s embrace of technology and innovation as drivers of economic growth is a lesson that resonates with Kenya's aspirations, particularly in the context of its burgeoning tech sector. 

China has positioned itself as a global leader in technology through significant investments in research and development, fostering a culture of innovation, and supporting startups. 

Kenya, often referred to as “Silicon Savannah,” has made strides in technology, particularly in mobile banking and fintech. 

However, for Kenya to fully capitalise on its technological potential, the political class must create an enabling environment that nurtures innovation. 

This includes investing in education, supporting research initiatives, and providing access to financing for entrepreneurs. 

Embracing a technology-driven economy can unlock new opportunities for growth and improve service delivery across various sectors.

Another critical aspect of China’s governance model that Kenya’s political class should consider is the focus on anti-corruption measures. While corruption has been a pervasive issue in both countries, China’s aggressive crackdown on corruption within its ranks demonstrates the importance of accountability and integrity in governance. 

Kenya has made strides in addressing corruption, but the political will to tackle this issue comprehensively remains lacking. Implementing robust anti-corruption frameworks, promoting transparency, and ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions are essential steps toward restoring public trust and enhancing governance.

Kenya’s political class stands at a crossroads, facing the dual challenges of governance and economic development. The lessons drawn from China’s experience offer a valuable roadmap for navigating these challenges.

By adopting a long-term vision, prioritising infrastructure development, enhancing governance efficiency, promoting inclusive growth, embracing technology, and addressing corruption, Kenya can pave the way for a more prosperous and equitable future.

The journey toward sustainable development may be fraught with obstacles, but the commitment to learn from successful models abroad can provide the foundation for transformative change. 

Embracing these lessons could help Kenya unlock its full potential, ultimately leading to improved living standards and a more resilient economy.

Aloys Michael 

Freelance Journalist who comments on Governance and Security Issues