China has promised to intensify its global infrastructure initiative, under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), ahead of a summit with African leaders beginning on Wednesday. The announcement comes amidst criticism that its projects on the continent are saddling nations with humongous debt and damaging the environment. China has several major projects underway across the continent. One of these is the development of a standard gauge railway in Kenya for $5 billion. The railway, which connects Nairobi to Mombasa, has improved travel times but faces delays and corruption allegations. Another project is the construction of a $590 million naval base and the Doraleh port in Djibouti. While these projects are crucial for regional trade and security, they are also a source of tension due to their proximity to a US base and concerns over control. China is also constructing Africa’s longest suspension bridge in Mozambique, costing $786 million.
SOURCE: VOA NEWS
