Nairobi’s new skyline Global Trade Center (GTC) has launched a campaign ‘dubbed ‘My Great Nairobi Photo Exhibition’ to celebrate the rich history of the capital city as the country commemorates 60 years of independence.
The commemoration will involve the evolution and development of Nairobi since independence, showcase Nairobi’s skyline, its people, architecture, landmarks, road networks and infrastructure and the rich culture among others.
The campaign will culminate with the setup of a photo gallery, which will display the evolution of Nairobi from a small dusty town to the bustling cosmopolitan and modern city it is today. The gallery will also showcase the history of Nairobi from the late 1800s to the present day.
According to GTC, the exhibition project also aims at preserving the rich history of Nairobi, educate the general public, commemorate the upgraded and the new phase of the city to serve as a source of inspiration to the limitless possibilities of the world, as well as celebrate the talent and creativity of photographers who have poured their hearts and souls to capture the evolving city.
Speaking during the launch held at GTC offices in Westlands, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja lauded the initiative, noting that it has come at a time when Kenyans need to be reminded of the beauty and heritage of their country, the resilience of its people, diversity and growth of the city through the years.
“GTC is calling on everyone to take part in this unique opportunity to be a part of Nairobi’s history and contribute to the creation of a lasting tribute to the city,” said Sakaja.
“MY Great Nairobi Photo Exhibition” campaign is not just a one-way exhibition, but one that will involve public participation by asking Kenyans to share their memories, memoirs and stories of Nairobi through mygreatnairobi.co.ke the official website of the exhibition,’ he stated.
The General Manager Avic International Gong Yuxian said the 41-storey GTC office tower, the-largest occupiable space in the region that boasts of a helipad, an ultimate premium city complex in East Africa has positioned Kenya as a regional commercial hub, providing a one-stop-shop for investors to live, work and play.
Our goal is to provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about the city’s history while also introducing Nairobi Global Trade Center – GTC, a HOPSCA project,” noted Mr Yuxian.
“Once the gallery is up and running, we encourage everyone to come and explore the gallery, view the apartments, explore the mall, and experience the lifestyle at GTC,” said the Deputy General Manager Mr. Frank Wang.
Wang said he believes the campaign will highlight all that is special and exceptional about Nairobi and inspire more people to come and visit, noting that the gallery is in line with the flagship project of Kenya’s Vision 2030 program.
The campaign will also include a photographer’s challenge to showcase photos of Nairobi’s architecture, road networks, Infrastructure and skyline, Culture and sports with modern day photography.
Photographers with the best images will be recognized with awards and honored at the official opening event of the Nairobi Photo Exhibition Gallery.
Partners for the campaign include the Nairobi County, Kenya National Archives, National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi Gallery and the Mo Amin Foundation.
By Bernadette Khaduli