The Chinese Embassy in Kenya, together with the Kenya-China Economic and Trade Association, has donated 11 million Kenyan shillings, equivalent to about 84,800 US dollars, to support major renovations at MCEDO Beijing School in Nairobi’s Mathare informal settlement. The contribution, announced on Tuesday, will go toward improving facilities and creating a safer and more dignified learning environment for students.
During the ceremony, the Chinese embassy also awarded one-year scholarships to 20 students at the school. The scholarships are intended to help learners continue their education and ease the financial challenges faced by families living in one of Nairobi’s most densely populated and underserved communities.
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said the embassy and Chinese enterprises have long supported the development of the MCEDO Beijing School. She noted that the institution’s history of self-reliance and perseverance reflects the strength of China-Kenya friendship and highlights the importance of people-to-people exchanges. Guo said the latest round of funding is meant to improve learning conditions, promote student retention, and support long-term educational development in the community.
School Director Benedict Kiage said the donation will finance the second phase of ongoing renovations. Planned upgrades include repainting classrooms, improving lighting, repairing roofs and floors, and providing new lockers, chairs, desks, laboratory equipment, and fire extinguishers. Kiage said these improvements will greatly enhance safety standards and restore a sense of dignity for students and teachers working in often challenging conditions.
He also highlighted the school’s 17-year partnership with the Chinese embassy and Chinese enterprises, saying their continuous support has transformed the institution and expanded opportunities for children in Mathare. Kiage said that many students who came from vulnerable backgrounds have been able to pursue further education because of the school’s growth and the support it has received.
Yu Xiaodong, chairman of the Kenya China Economic and Trade Association, said the initiative reflects the commitment of Chinese companies to supporting Kenyan communities through corporate social responsibility. He stressed that improving school infrastructure is an investment in the future of young people and helps strengthen long term relations between China and Kenya.
A student representative, Latipher Natasha Omondi, thanked the Chinese embassy and partner enterprises for their support. She said the donation will make a significant difference in students’ lives, helping improve learning conditions and motivating children to stay in school.
MCEDO Beijing School has become a symbol of resilience and international cooperation in Mathare, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements. With limited resources and growing demand, the school has relied heavily on partnerships to improve facilities and support learners. The latest funding is expected to accelerate ongoing upgrades and provide students with a safer, more supportive environment as they pursue their education.
