Chinese artists' visit to Kenya breaks new ground in cultural diplomacy

Zhu Guizhou was fascinated by the pristine landscapes and wildlife heritage during his maiden visit to Kenya accompanied by more than 20 Chinese artists and university scholars.

The secretary-general of Afro Sino Cultural Exchange Association told Xinhua on the sidelines of Chinese artists' exhibition held in Nairobi on Monday that his Kenyan tour strengthened his affinity to the country's people and its natural wonders.

Zhu led a group of Chinese visual artists on an extensive visit to Kenya that commenced late March and included stops at an elephant orphanage in the capital Nairobi, a world famous wildlife sanctuary, and participation in charity events.

The Chinese artists also visited rural villages to mingle with indigenous communities and learn about their cultures.

Zhu confessed his admiration to diverse and rich Kenyan cultures as well as the country's enduring natural beauty during the tour.

"My visit to Kenya was a watershed moment and I feel privileged to have a personal interaction with the people and learn about their way of life," said Zhu, adding that culture could be a viable vehicle for promoting friendship between the Kenyan and Chinese people.

Chinese artists and university scholars drawn from different parts of the Asian giant visited Kenya against a backdrop of ongoing efforts to promote cultural diplomacy between the two countries.

Zhu stressed that regular people-to-people interactions are key to demolishing stereotypes and myths that often undermine harmonious coexistence.

"We are one people and should deepen friendship irrespective of our cultural differences. During my visit to Kenya, I learnt there is so much we share in common and should therefore promote unity in diversity," Zhu told Xinhua.

He led the delegation of visiting Chinese artists on March 29 tour to an elephant orphanage in Nairobi where they pledged solidarity with global campaign to save the giant land mammal.

The artists also donated learning materials to a public school in Nairobi, vowing to enhance interactions among Kenyan and Chinese youths.

An exhibition by Chinese artists staged at the University of Nairobi on Monday was the culmination of the cultural tour that sought to improve their understanding of the Kenyan people, their cultures and natural wealth.

Lin Shengyang, an arts teacher, said his first visit to Kenya was an epoch moment that strengthened his attachment to the country's diverse communities and landscapes.

"What I can say is that our visit opened our eyes to Kenyan beauty, hospitality and rich natural heritage. Local communities were very friendly and we enjoyed sightseeing in the countryside," said Lin.

He vowed to become a goodwill ambassador for the thriving Sino-Kenyan cultural ties.

The Chinese artists' exhibition that was a climax of their Kenyan tour helped showcase landmarks such as the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) that have become enduring symbol of ties between Nairobi and Beijing.

Other portraits at the one-day exhibition captured Kenya's scenic attractions and indigenous customs.
Jiang Zuqing, an arts scholar and nature lover, vowed to popularize Kenya's rich culture, wildlife and pristine environment to her peers back home.

"I was impressed by Kenyans' way of life and was convinced we can share the best aspects of our two cultures to strengthen friendship. Kenya is a country of wonders and I will always treasure memories of my first visit to the country," said Jiang.

Senior Kenyan officials said that regular exchange visits by artists and joint exhibitions are key to cementing friendship and trust between Kenya and China.

Kiprop Lagat, director of culture in the ministry of sports, culture and arts, said that Sino-Kenyan cooperation in performing and visual arts, museums and archives has enhanced cultural diplomacy between the two countries.

"We continue to support cultural exchanges with China as a means to build bridges and strengthen bonds of friendship," said Kiprop, adding that China has provided support to help Kenya build a vibrant creative industry.

Frank Asira, the chairman of Afro Sino Cultural Exchange Association, said the maiden visit to Kenya by Chinese artists marked a new beginning in the quest for friendship and peaceful coexistence among people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

"When artists from China and Kenya sit down together to draw and paint, our friendship grows. Reciprocal visits by these artists are needed to strengthen our ties," Asira said.