China donates 39 artworks to Kenya in cultural exchange

China has donated 39 artworks to the National Museums of Kenya, strengthening cultural ties between the two countries and giving Kenyans a window into China's artistic traditions and rural transformation.

The artworks, donated by the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, were unveiled on Friday at the Nairobi National Museum during exhibitions marking the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

Mary Gikungu, National Museums of Kenya director general, said the donation was a "lasting symbol of friendship and cultural cooperation" between China and Kenya.

She said the exhibitions, featuring painting, ceramics, sculpture and traditional embroidery, would create a dialogue between Chinese and African artistic traditions while highlighting shared appreciation for nature, community and cultural heritage.

"It reminds us that although our civilizations may have different histories and expressions, we share a deep appreciation for nature, community, spirituality and the stories that connect generations," said Gikungu.

Richard Ndung'u, the chairperson of Kenya China Trade and Investment Promotion Initiative, said the donation went beyond art, describing it as a bridge for people, businesses and cultures.

"The works could help deepen cultural tourism, creative-sector partnerships and opportunities for Kenyan artists to access Chinese and wider Asian markets," he said.

Sichuan Fine Arts Institute curator Zhang Liang said the exhibitions demonstrate how art can preserve intangible cultural heritage, improve rural environments and strengthen communities.

She said the 39 artworks would serve as a lasting reminder of the friendship between Kenya and China while inspiring greater understanding and cooperation between China and Africa.