Kilifi leaders upbeat on China’s plan to build museum

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Kenya High Commissioner to Tanzania Dan Kazungu. [Pius Cheruiyot, Standard]

Kilifi leaders have welcomed plans by the Chinese government to build a museum and an industrial park at Mambrui near Malindi town.
The initiative is in honour of one of Chinese greatest pioneer sailors, Zheng He, who landed in the seaside village more than 600 years ago.
Archaeological excavations by Kenyan and Chinese experts in 2012 at Mambrui village established that there was thriving trade between Kenya and China in the 15th century.
The museum and industrial park are expected to spur economic growth, enhance culture, tourism and strengthen ties between Kenya and China.
Kenyan High Commissioner to Tanzania and former Malindi MP Dan Kazungu said the Chinese Chamber of Commerce was planning to build the museum and industrial park as proof of the ancient trade between the two countries.

Chinese sailors Zheng He. [Courtesy]

During a tour of Mambrui village on Wednesday, Mr Kazungu, who is former Mining Cabinet Secretary, said the Chinese Chamber of Commerce would sent a delegation to the site before building the museum and the industrial Park.
Zheng is believed to have made major trips to the Indian world from 1405 to 1433 and hence opening up trade between China and the rest of the world.
Kazungu said China was set to make Mambrui and Kilifi County part of its tourism circuit to celebrate its centuries-old heritage in the region.
“I have been talking to some friends from China Chamber of Commerce who are planning to come and see for themselves the route that the great sailor Zheng took from China to dock here in Malindi during those early days of trade and exploration,” Kazungu said.
He said it was interesting that the Chinese wanted to explore the area and see the route their forefathers used when they were exploring and trading with that part of the world.
Kazungu noted the museum will promote tourism, culture and the Kenya-China ties.
He said the industrial park will spur economic activity in Malindi and other parts of the county.

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