US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has criticised China's economic engagement in Kenya and other African countries.
According to reports by the BBC, Tillerson blamed China for encouraging dependency, utilised corrupt deals and endangering Africa's natural resources.
The US Secretary of State maintained that China's investment had the potential to improve Africa's infrastructure, but criticised its approach which he stated had led to mounting debt while creating few jobs.
Tillerson stated: "Our country's security and economic prosperity are linked with Africa's like never before."
[caption caption="US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson"]
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In his message, Tillerson affirmed that the US would do more to reduce trade and investment barriers for its African partners.
China has increased its trade links with African countries which is highly attributed to demand for the continent's minerals.
Tillerson's remark comes a year after his visit to China where he made an agreement to work together with the Asian country on various issues.
He gave his speech at George Mason University in Virginia, before starting his weeklong visit to Kenya, Chad, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Nigeria.
During his official visit to Kenya, the US Secretary of State will also be looking to mend America's relationship with Africa especially after President Donald Trump remarks on the continent.
[caption caption="Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) shakes hands with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson"]
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He maintained that his trip will be centred around talks on counterterrorism, democracy, governance, trade and investment.
