German Ambassador to Kenya Sebastian Groth said the evening was an opportunity to celebrate friendship and shared experiences through art

The German and French embassies joined forces to support arts education and nurture young talent in Kibera through a charity art exhibition aimed at raising funds for Anno’s One Fine Day.

Held at the German Ambassador’s Residence, the event brought together guests for an evening of Kenyan art and music in support of the non-profit organisation, which uses creative arts to help children and young people from disadvantaged communities discover and develop their talents.

“This evening is not so much about foreign policy or diplomacy. It is more about having a good time together, probably too well,” Groth said.

The exhibition featured artworks available for purchase, with part of the proceeds going directly towards supporting the initiative.

Groth also took to the piano, treating guests to an energetic performance that added a personal touch to the evening.

He played several musical selections, drawing cheers and applause from the audience as guests clapped along.

The entertainment also featured a live band which, according to Groth, had recently returned from a tour in Madagascar.

Beyond the art and music, the evening highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the German and French embassies in supporting Anno’s One Fine Day.

French Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Alexandre Peaudeau said the partnership reflected the strength of French-German friendship and the importance of individuals in sustaining relationships across diplomatic changes.

He credited the organisation’s founder and director, Krysteen Savane, for maintaining a strong relationship with both embassies despite the regular rotation of diplomatic staff.

“As diplomats, we change the country every three years, so it's very difficult to keep a trustful relationship with an embassy because you speak with a partner and it's your partner only for three years,” Peaudeau said.

"The continued cooperation demonstrates how lasting relationships could help sustain initiatives with a meaningful impact on communities."

The French Embassy recently inaugurated a music studio at the Anno’s One Fine Day Centre, adding to its support for the organisation and its arts programmes.

Savane said the centre uses dance, music, ballet, creative writing, drama, acrobatics and aerial arts to give children opportunities to explore their abilities and express themselves.

She described the centre as a safe environment where children can discover their potential, build confidence and develop their aspirations.

“We are not just raising funds for an art centre, we are investing in our children's dreams and in the possibilities of their future,” Savane said.

She also highlighted the organisation's achievements, revealing that 12 teenagers who had gone through its educational scholarship programme graduated this year and joined different universities.

The students are pursuing courses including nursing, international relations and biochemistry.

"The centre currently receives about 200 children daily during school holidays, with activities running from 8 am to 4 pm," she said.

She further acknowledged the German government's contribution towards building a professional arts centre in Kibera, saying the facility provides children with a safe space to develop their creative abilities.

"I also want to thank the French government for supporting the organisation, including the establishment of the first ballet dance studio in Kibera," she said.

The charity exhibition brought together art, music and diplomacy around a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for children in disadvantaged communities.