President William Ruto has extended Chinese New Year wishes to the Chinese community in Kenya and across the world, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation with Beijing.
Ruto described China as an important development partner for Kenya and a strong advocate of multilateralism and the Global South.
In a statement on X, he conveyed greetings on behalf of the people and Government of Kenya.
Ruto also acknowledged the role played by the Chinese business community in Kenya, terming it a key partner in implementing the outcomes of his State Visit to China last year and in advancing the vision of building a closer community with a shared future for the new era.
"China is an important development partner of Kenya and a strong voice for the Global South and multilateralism. Kenya recognises and appreciates the contribution of the Chinese business community in Kenya, a key stakeholder in implementing the outcomes of my successful State Visit to China in 2025 and in advancing the vision of Building a Closer Community with a Shared Future for the New Era,” the President said.
He said 2026 marks the Year of People-to-People Exchange within the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation framework.
The President expressed Kenya’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the Chinese private sector.
According to the President, the partnership will prioritise initiatives that enhance people-to-people connections, including tourism as well as cultural, educational and sports exchanges.
“As 2026 also marks the Year of People-to-People Exchange within the FOCAC framework, we look forward to continued collaboration with the Chinese private sector in undertaking initiatives that enhance people-to-people connections, including through tourism, as well as cultural, educational and sports activities,” Ruto said.
Lunar New Year will be marked on Tuesday, February 17.
This year will be the Year of the Horse, which will run from February 17, 2026 until February 20, 2027.
The festival celebrating Lunar new Year will last 15 days and will culminate with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day. This will take place on March 3.
The horse is the 7th animal in the 12-year- cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs.
Previous Year of the Horse years include 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, and 1954. The next Year of the Horse is set to take place in 2038.
In Chinese mythology, the horse symbolises a fast-paced, energetic period with a focus on forward momentum.
The Year of the Horse is often interpreted as symbolising a time for pursuing new passions, while also recognising that this period may be volatile and significant.
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