Kenya hosts exhibition marking 620th anniversary of Zheng He's voyages

A photo exhibition marking the 620th anniversary of Zheng He's legendary voyages opened on Friday at the National Museums of Kenya, in Nairobi, Kenya, celebrating a shared history and the 62nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Kenya.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Guo Haiyan, Chinese ambassador to Kenya, said archaeological findings and oral histories from residents of Lamu islands provide vivid testimony to the enduring bond of kinship across the ocean.

"This was the ancient Maritime Silk Road, and more than that, a monument to peace, friendship, and cooperation," she said. "The road closely linked China with countries like Kenya, forging a profound and enduring friendship between our peoples."

"China is ready to work with Kenya to carry forward our friendship, deepen our cooperation, and jointly create a brighter future ensuring that the ship of China-Kenya friendship continues to sail steadily and bravely through the waves of the new era."

From 1405 to 1433, Zheng, a Chinese navigator and envoy, embarked on seven epic voyages reaching as far as East Africa, which resulted in enhanced cultural exchange and trade between China and the world.

During these voyages, Zheng's fleet carried silk, porcelain, tea, and advanced production technologies, trading them for goods such as spices, sandalwood, and precious stones.

Mary Gikungu, the director general of the National Museums of Kenya, welcomed the decision to host the exhibition, saying it speaks directly to shared histories, intercultural encounters, and peaceful exchanges across the Indian Ocean.

"Through photographs and virtual narratives, we are invited to rediscover connections that continue to shape our contemporary relations."

Qin Minxue, chairman of China General Chamber of Commerce in East Africa, said the photo exhibition offers a valuable window to revisit history and deepen mutual understanding.

"Zheng He's historic chapter marks not only a magnificent beginning of friendly exchanges between China and Africa, but also an enduring testament to the close bond between the two parties," he said.

Mercy Mueni, a China-Africa relations scholar, described the exhibition as a powerful reminder of the deep historical roots underpinning ties between the two regions.

"This photo exhibition reminds us that history is not just something to remember, it is something we inherit, interpret and build upon," she said. "These images are not just records of the past, they reflect who we are and point to where we can go as two nations."

Fred Okoth, another China-Africa relations scholar, said Zheng He's voyages symbolize peaceful exploration, cultural exchange and cooperation among civilizations.

"His journeys were guided by dialogue and mutual respect rather than conflict; values that continue to guide international cooperation," he said.

Okoth noted that over the past 62 years, China-Kenya relations have grown in both depth and scope.

"Cooperation in infrastructure, education, technology, trade, and cultural exchange, has not only strengthened bilateral ties but has also created life-changing opportunities for young people," he said.