Kenya Deports Taiwanese Scientist, Reaffirms One-China Policy

Kenya has deported a Taiwanese scientist who attempted to enter the country using a passport that Nairobi does not recognise, reaffirming its commitment to the one-China policy.

The scientist was denied entry in Mombasa after receiving an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) that Kenyan authorities later said had been issued in error. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr Korir Sing’oei confirmed the incident and said holders of Taiwanese passports would not be allowed to take part in official government events.

Dr Sing’oei described the approval of the travel authorisation as a "system error" and said the government would take steps to prevent similar cases. His remarks are the clearest public confirmation to date that Kenya does not recognise Taiwanese passports for official purposes.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticised the decision, accusing Kenya of yielding to pressure from Beijing. China, meanwhile, welcomed the move and said it reflected Kenya's continued support for the one-China principle.

Kenya's relationship with China stretches back more than five decades. In 1971, Kenya supported the United Nations resolution that recognised the People's Republic of China as the legitimate representative of China and removed Taiwan's seat. 

Since then, Nairobi has consistently maintained diplomatic relations with Beijing while rejecting official recognition of Taiwan. President William Ruto reinforced that position during a state visit to China last year. 

A joint statement issued during the visit described Taiwan as an inseparable part of Chinese territory and reaffirmed Kenya's opposition to any moves towards Taiwanese independence. The policy has had practical consequences in recent years. 

In 2016, Kenya deported five Taiwanese nationals to mainland China despite objections from Taipei. Restrictions affecting Taiwanese representation have since become more stringent. Although Taiwanese passport holders may still be allowed to travel for tourism or personal reasons, they are not permitted to represent Taiwan in official or diplomatic capacities.

China has strengthened its influence across Africa through trade, investment and diplomatic partnerships. Countries that recognise Beijing benefit from a range of economic arrangements, including tariff-free access for some exports. Kenya exports products such as avocados, tea and coffee to the Chinese market under these arrangements.

At the same time, the number of African countries maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan has continued to decline. Today, only Eswatini formally recognises Taiwan. Other countries, including Burkina Faso, have ended relations with Taipei in favour of Beijing.