BRI-backed projects drive East Africa's integration

China's Belt and Road Initiative continues to play a pivotal role in shaping East Africa's integration, trade expansion and infrastructure development, according to a new plan for the region.

Unveiled last week in Arusha, Tanzania, the East African Community's proposed $109 million budget for the 2025-26 financial year places a strong emphasis on cross-border transport corridors — many of them backed by Chinese support through BRI-aligned investment and cooperation.

The budget, presented by Beatrice Askul Moe, chairwoman of the EAC Council of Ministers and Kenya's cabinet secretary for EAC Affairs, outlined major infrastructure projects that are key to unlocking intra-African trade and deepening economic integration within the eight-member bloc.