Leaders who witnessed the signing of the deal, sunday 11th may 2014.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has Sunday said that the old railway cannot do anymore as it was constructed by colonial powers for colonial ends and hence the need for the new standard gauge railway .
While witnessing the signing of the deal for the standard gauge railway together with the Chinese prime minister Li Keqiang , Uhuru said that the old Railway was built by colonial force while the new one is build by partnerships.
Chinese Premier Li on his part reiterated that this project was an indicatation that there is mutual cooperation between Kenya and other East African countries as well as China.
He stated the importance of Railway infrastructure for the economic growth of east african countries.
The Chinese premier also emphasized on the need for the Chinese companies seeking to work in the country to respect local laws and customs
Uganda President Yoweri Museveni speaking on behalf of the visiting delegations said that the signing of the standard gauge railway deal acts to show how closely the East African Community is working and he further thanked china for standing with Africa.
Among other invited guests who were present at the function include heads of state including Rwandese president-Paul kagameJakaya Kikwete (Tanzania), Presidents Yoweri Museveni (Uganda), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and a representative of the Burundian government .
According to the chinese premier, this is a major beginning of the main undertaking with the aim plan being to link 7 East African countries through the railway line.
AUTHOR: MIRYAMME OGUTU.