Kenya: Traders Protest Against Chinese Competitors

Over a thousand Kenyan traders protested in the capital Nairobi on Tuesday against Chinese traders.

The demonstration follows controversy caused by the opening of China Square, a general merchandise retail outlet, whose prices are, according to local media, typically 45% less than those of locally owned businesses.

China is Africa's top trading partner, and it is estimated that there are more than 1 million Chinese living in Kenya. 

During William Ruto's victory in the presidential election last year, attention was focused on Kenya's relationship with China.

Ruto pledged to deport Chinese nationals who were working illegally and to publish government contracts reached with China under his predecessor.

The traders marched to the deputy president's office and parliament while wearing the dust coats they use in their retail locations to present a petition against the Chinese retailers.

"The Chinese cannot be importers, retailers, wholesalers, and hawkers," read one placard held aloft during the protest. Some chanted "Chinese must go!"

Moses Kuria, Kenya's trade minister, has proposed taking over China Square's lease from its Chinese owner and handing it over to local traders, but Korir Sing'oei, the ministry of foreign affairs' principal secretary, emphasized in a statement that all investors are welcome, regardless of their nationality.

Also in a statement, Wu Peng, the top African representative at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, praised Sing'oei's assurance.

Lei Cheng, the owner of China Square, reportedly told a local newspaper that he was motivated to open the store because he thought the prices at a Nairobi supermarket were outrageous.

In November, Ruto carried out his campaign promise to release information about $3 billion in loans for a contentious Chinese railway that was constructed by his predecessor.