About this episode

The episode discusses a landmark court ruling in Kenya regarding secret railway contracts and explores broader themes of China's role in Africa's energy sector and trade dynamics.

Kenya's Court of Appeals issued a landmark ruling rejecting the government's decade-long effort to keep secret the $4.5 billion in China Exim Bank loan contracts used to finance the Standard Gauge Railway. The decision marks a major victory for civil society activists who have long argued that the project was plagued by corruption, opaque procurement practices, and unfavorable terms for Kenya. Eric & Geraud also discuss how a growing dispute between Niger and Benin over a Chinese-backed oil pipeline is exposing the intersection of resource politics, security risks, and Beijing's evolving role in Africa's energy sector. Finally, the discussion turns to China's new zero-tariff access for African exports, why many African governments may struggle to take full advantage of the opportunity, and how shifting global energy and trade dynamics are once again increasing the strategic importance of African infrastructure and commodities. 📌 Topics Covered in this Episode Kenya's secret China railway loan contracts Court ruling on SGR transparency Niger-Benin pipeline dispute China's shifting Africa investment strategy Zero-tariff access for African exports Africa's growing strategic energy…

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