Classical Concert Opens 50 Years of EU–Kenya Relations Anniversary Celebration

Nairobi - A distinguished evening of classical music opened the start of a yearlong celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the European Union and Kenya. The performance featured Polish violinist Michał Buczkowski, Belgian-Turkish pianist Merve Mersinligil, and Kenyan violinist Steve Omondi.

The evening opened with remarks from EU Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger, who reflected on the evolution of EU-Kenya relations, emphasising that cooperation has expanded well beyond development assistance to encompass trade, climate action, governance, education, and cultural exchange. She underscored the importance of people-to-people connections in sustaining long-term diplomatic ties, noting that cultural events such as this concert serve as vital bridges between nations.

Ambassador Diana Kiambuthi, Deputy Director General of the Cultural Diplomacy Directorate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir at the event. She echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the role of culture as a strategic tool in diplomacy. Ambassador Kiambuthi noted that artistic expression provides a universal language that fosters mutual understanding and reinforces Kenya's engagement with international partners, including the European Union.

Following the remarks, violinist Michał Buczkowski and pianist Merve Mersinligil took centre stage for an eagerly anticipated performance. The duo opened with Guillaume Lekeu's Sonata in G major, delivering a nuanced interpretation across its three movements-Très modéré, Très lent, and Très animé. The highlight of the evening was the performance of Vittorio Monti's spirited Csárdás by Kenyan Ghetto Classics student Steve Omondi. The programme also featured Alexander Voormolen's Pastorale and César Franck's Sonata.

The concert marked the opening event of the EU Delegation's anniversary celebrations, which will continue throughout the year. The celebrations, aptly captured in Swahili "Umoja Pamoja", will focus on education, science, and culture to strengthen the bond between Europe and Kenya.