The National Museums of Kenya in Nairobi opened an exhibition on December 19 commemorating the 620th anniversary of Ming dynasty navigator Zheng He's voyages and 62 years of modern bilateral ties with China. The display highlights the historic stops at Kenyan ports like Mombasa and Malindi by Zheng He's fleet.
The exhibition at the National Museums of Kenya in Nairobi showcases the Ming dynasty ships that braved formidable waves and traversed vast distances on seven epic maritime expeditions to reach the shores of Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia, and finally the eastern coast of Africa.
Opened on December 19, it commemorates both the 620th anniversary of Zheng He's voyages, which began in 1405 under Emperor Yongle, and 62 years of modern relations between China and Kenya.
Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said that historic Kenyan ports like Mombasa and Malindi were key stops for Zheng He, illustrating a long-standing presence based on harmony rather than force.
The display links the ancient Maritime Silk Road to the contemporary Belt and Road Initiative, highlighting ongoing cooperation between China and African nations. Keywords from the coverage include Kenya, Zheng He, National Museums of Kenya, China, Mombasa, Africa, and Belt and Road Initiative. This event represents the latest in diplomatic efforts to celebrate enduring ties from the Ming era to today.