Kenya - From March 23 to 31, four young volunteers from Chongqing, China, participated in an eight-day international ecological exchange program in Kenya.

Organized by the Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation and the Asia-America-Europe Cultural Exchange Center of Chongqing, with support from the Chongqing Luhai Foundation International Volunteer Service Special Fund, the initiative aimed to foster cross-cultural understanding and environmental cooperation between Chinese and African youth.

From March 23 to 31, a group of four young volunteers from Chongqing, China, participated in an eight-day international ecological exchange program in Kenya. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

A shared vision for conservation

The journey began at the Kenya National Museum, where the students explored the country's rich biodiversity through exhibits and specimens. Li Xincan, a sixth-grader from Honghe Primary School in Chongqing's Yongchuan District, expressed awe at Africa's wildlife, "Seeing the African elephant specimens made me realize how majestic they are—much larger than Asian elephants!"

The group later visited the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, gaining insights into global environmental policies and collaborative conservation efforts.

Cultural exchange and joint advocacy

A highlight of the trip was the "Land-Sea Promise: China-Africa Ecological Civilization Exchange" event at the University of Nairobi Confucius Institute. Chongqing students took active roles. Li Meile, a student from Xiamen University Malaysia, curated a photo exhibition titled "Eagle City", showcasing Chongqing's raptor conservation efforts. Meanwhile, Yang Yunqiao, a middle school student from Chongqing Railway Middle School, interviewed international guests on ecological protection and similarities between China and Africa.

The young delegates also co-authored the "China-Africa Youth Eco-Friendly Initiative", pledging to promote sustainable practices. Jin Shishuang, a Kenyan student at the Confucius Institute, said, "This isn't just a visit—it's the start of long-term collaboration between our youth."

From March 23 to 31, a group of four young volunteers from Chongqing, China, participated in an eight-day international ecological exchange program in Kenya. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

In Masai Mara, the volunteers engaged with local students, sharing stories of Chongqing's biodiversity through symbolic "Eagle City" badges. Gifts were exchanged, and Kenyan community leader Simon Masago welcomed further cooperation, "We'd love more Chinese volunteers to join projects like building fences, planting gardens, and improving livelihoods."

A step toward global sustainability

Li Hui, Director of the Asia-America-Europe Cultural Exchange Center, emphasized the program's broader mission, "We want youth to connect deeply—not just culturally, but heart-to-heart." This inaugural trip under the "Land-Sea International Volunteer Service" project is set to expand, with more exchanges planned across Africa.

Chen Can, Deputy Secretary-General of the Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation, added, "True international service means immersing in local communities. We'll keep empowering youth to learn, grow, and contribute to global sustainable development."

As these young ambassadors return home, their experiences stand as a testament to the power of cross-border collaboration in safeguarding our planet's future.

(Wang Shuyun, as an intern, also contributed  to the report.)