Eastleigh

Chinese Deputy Chief of Mission praises Eastleigh's development and economic ties

The Deputy Head of Mission of China to Kenya, Zhang Zhizhong. Photo: Ahmed Shafat

By Abdirahman Khalif | Thursday, June 20, 2024

He attributed the progress to the cooperation between Kenya and China, which he said benefits local entrepreneurs.

Deputy Head of Mission of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, Zhang Zhizhong, on Thursday compared Eastleigh to major cities in China, citing its significant development and robust economy.

Accompanied by members of the Chinese embassy in Kenya, Zhang made his first visit to Eastleigh, where he praised the area's vibrant business environment and the strong economic ties between China and Eastleigh.

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Speaking to The Eastleigh Voice, Zhang remarked, "Eastleigh resembles many places in China due to its impressive development and thriving businesses."

He attributed this progress to the cooperation between Kenya and China, which he said benefits local entrepreneurs. Zhang also noted the sense of security while walking through the streets.

Zhang's visit began at 9 am with a tour of Kamukunji Technical and Vocational College in the Airbase Ward. He toured various departments, including ICT, hairdressing, facial treatment, massage, and the kitchen, observing pupils engaged in practical instruction.

Deputy Head of Mission of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, Zhang Zhizhong and Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan visit Kamukunji Technical and Vocational College in Eastleigh's Airbase Ward. Photo: Ahmed Shafat, EV.

Zhang expressed his satisfaction with the use of Chinese-donated equipment at the institution.

Kamukunji Technical and Vocational College principal Simon Njoroge expressed his gratitude for Zhang's visit.

"We are so grateful and honoured. We look forward to having partnerships with China in the areas of technical and vocational studies," said Njoroge.

After the college tour, Zhang was led by Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan through several malls on Mohamed Yusuf Haji Avenue, including Bangkok Mall, Amal Plaza, and Tasnim Shopping Mall, where he interacted with local businesspeople, occasionally inquiring about the sources of their goods and discussing Eastleigh-China economic ties.

Deputy Chief of Mission of China to Kenya Zhang Zhizhong with the Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan on Mohamed Yusuf Haji Avenue while he was being shown around the various malls. Photo: Ahmed Shafat, EV.

Zhang also visited The Eastleigh Voice offices at the California Square building, Waudo Street, where he also had a taste of Somali cuisine at a restaurant in the same building.

Deputy Chief of Mission of China to Kenya Zhang Zhizhong at The Eastleigh Voice offices. Photo: Ahmed Shafat

He then visited Business Bay Square Mall, where he was welcomed by Communication Officer Dalmar Abdi and Chief Executive Officer Munir Ahmed.

Deputy Chief of Mission of China to Kenya Zhang Zhizhong with BBS Mall CEO Munir Ahmed. Photo: Ahmed Shafat, EV

Zhang explored various sections of the mall, including electronics and clothing shops, and the upcoming gold market. He also experienced the new bowling section recently opened to the public.

Eastleigh has lately had visits from high-profile dignitaries such as President William Ruto, Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Bare, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, all of whom visited within the last three months.

These visits emphasise Eastleigh's growing significance as a commercial hub in Kenya.