Chinese medical firm opens store in Kenyan capital

NAIROBI - Chinese medical firm Weigao Group on Friday opened its first store in the Kenyan capital Nairobi.

The store would give Kenyans access to a variety of medicines and modern medical devices at affordable prices, Weigao Group Chairman Chen Xueli said during the opening ceremony.

"We want to bring quality products here and to make a contribution to uplifting Africa's health sector," Chen said.

Weigao, established in 1988, is a leading Chinese company producing disposable medical devices. Its products are exported to some 30 countries across the world including the US, Britain, Germany and Australia.

Chen added the company's latest products would also be available in Africa.

Cabinet Secretary for Ministry, James Macharia, noted at the ceremony that Kenya and China signed in May a deal on cooperation in the health sector.

"Under the agreement, Kenya will receive assistance from China in upgrading its medical infrastructure and technology transfer," Macharia said.

Weigao is said to be considering setting up a plant in Kenya in the next five years targeting the African market.