China on Saturday celebrated the International Children’s Day, a day set aside to celebrate young persons around the world.
In line with this, the China Kenya Culture Education Center in collaboration with the Kenya Chinese Women Association held an event in Kenya to appreciate children in the country.
The celebration was graced by Counselor Wang Xuezheng of the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi, Speaker of the Nairobi County Assembly Hon. Beatrice Elachi, Chairperson of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund Hon. Regina Nthambi Muia among others.
Children from China, Kenya and other countries attended the celebration held in Nairobi, where various intercultural performances were showcased.
Speaking at the event, Counselor Wang commended the China Kenya Culture Education Center for playing a key role in promoting desired China-Kenya relations.
“It provides a very precious opportunity and environment for the local children to learn about the Chinese language and culture and to promote cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between the two countries, as well as between China and other cultures,” he said.
In her speech, Speaker Elachi thanked China for its cooperation with her country, noting various exchange programmes that have seen various Kenyan students travel to the Asian country on scholarships and other educational opportunities.
“Today as you celebrate and embrace a holiday of children within China, Kenya is celebrating Madakra Day (Independence Day). Indeed, we know we have walked a journey with the People’s Republic of China, and we know our relationship goes way back, many years now. And as we join the children, we know we are one people regardless of our color. We want to thank the government of china for the partnership they have had with Kenya, the different engagements that we have and the exchange programmes that we have. We say thank you,” she said.
The International Children’s Day is celebrated annually throughout the world on different dates. It was established in 1949 by the “Democratic Federation of Women” Congress in Paris. China was one of the first countries to support the initiative, setting aside June 1 as its Children’s Day the same year.
