Hassan Omar Hassan, secretary general of the United Democratic Alliance, Kenya, speaks at the China-Kenya Readers Forum on Xi Jinping: The Governance of China in Nairobi, Kenya, on 1 December 

Xi Jinping: The Governance of China is not merely a compilation of speeches and policy statements; it is a comprehensive intellectual framework that articulates the philosophical foundations and practical principles of socialism with Chinese characteristics. Kenya faces many challenges in its development journey. We have long attempted to adopt Western models, yet these efforts have often proved ineffective. This work offers valuable Chinese perspectives and guidance that can inspire us to explore a governance approach grounded in Kenyan realities and Kenyan characteristics. 

China’s governance insights 

One thing I came to understand during my visit to China is that it is the party that leads the state, rather than a government that merely supports a party. China’s model is built on foundational pillars such as disciplined and accountable political leadership, long-term strategic planning, ecological civilisation, poverty alleviation, technological innovation, and an unwavering commitment to building a community with a shared future for humanity. Alongside our development agenda, the Global South must now strengthen its strategic security. Among developing countries, China stands out as one that has already reached the moon and significantly advanced its security capabilities, offering an important reference for other nations seeking to enhance their own strategic security frameworks. 

The successive editions of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China have been translated into multiple languages, including Swahili, reflecting China’s intention to engage the world not only through trade and investment, but also through the exchange of ideas and the sharing of governance philosophy. For Kenya and other African countries, this intellectual dialogue offers an important opportunity to reflect on the principles behind China’s “development miracle” and to draw lessons that can strengthen our own systems of economic governance. 

As we pursue our development agenda, we must work together, not only in building roads and other critical infrastructure, but also in forging a shared understanding of development and deepening strategic cooperation across the Global South. Our prosperity depends on inclusive partnerships and a collective commitment to common progress. 

Each volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China highlights essential insights: development as the ultimate measure of governance, innovation as the driving force of growth, infrastructure as the backbone of economic transformation, and prosperity that remains inclusive and people-centred. These ideas resonate strongly with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and our commitment to building an equitable, empowered and forward-looking society. 

Stronger parties, stronger partnership 

Strengthening cooperation between political parties is a fundamental pillar of successful national development. Kenya and China must continue deepening party-to-party exchanges, drawing on each other’s experience in capacity building, anti-corruption, internal democracy, justice, and principled, people-centred leadership. We value openness and inclusiveness, and we remain committed to advancing continental cooperation in Africa, building institutional reform frameworks, and designing homegrown policy solutions. In this journey, China stands as an important partner, having supported Kenya in major areas such as infrastructure development, including the Mombasa–Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, the Mombasa Special Economic Zone, the blue economy, and green development initiatives. 

Africa today stands at a defining moment. Infrastructure remains one of our core challenges, and strong leadership is required for us to participate actively, rather than passively, in global governance reform and global dialogue. China’s Belt and Road Initiative aligns closely with the Kenya Vision 2030. Projects such as the Mombasa-Nairobi transport corridor have attracted significant investment, created employment opportunities, and strengthened national logistics. I have personally visited some of these construction sites. Today, one can see new roads, reservoirs, and an increasingly vibrant Port of Mombasa. With continued improvements and upgrades in infrastructure, Kenya’s international competitiveness has risen significantly. This is why President William Ruto consistently emphasises the need to maintain the momentum of infrastructure development. 

A shared path to development 

China, as a major economic power, offers valuable and vivid examples through its governance philosophy and development practices. I once visited Fujian Province, and the transformative initiatives promoted there by President Xi during his tenure as provincial Party secretary deeply inspired me and left a lasting impact. The reforms he championed, rooted in pragmatism, innovation and people-centred development, show how local experimentation can shape national progress. 

Looking ahead, Kenya and China will continue to expand the space for cooperation and strengthen our institutional frameworks. Our focus remains firmly on advancing the interests of the Kenyan people by driving reforms, improving our governance systems, and enhancing the well-being of our citizens. This book should serve as a platform for critical thinking, constructive dialogue and strategic action. It calls on us to learn with an open mind, to question, and most importantly, to innovate. 

By identifying ideas that strengthen our institutions and inspire our leadership, we reaffirm our commitment to a productive partnership with China. Through continued knowledge exchange and shared experience, we believe we can elevate governance, accelerate development, and open new opportunities for our citizens. It is in this spirit of cooperation, learning, and shared progress that I stand with my colleagues in affirming Kenya’s enduring friendship with China. 

*This article is a revised version of a speech delivered by Hassan Omar Hassan, secretary general of the United Democratic Alliance, Kenya, at the China-Kenya Readers Forum on Xi Jinping: The Governance of China held in Nairobi, Kenya, on 1 December.