CS Rebecca Miano Opens “Dining with Italy” Exhibition at Nairobi National Museum

 

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, EGH, on Tuesday evening officially opened “Dining with Italy: 100 Years of Taste and Innovation”, a unique exhibition celebrating a century of Italian culinary heritage, at the Nairobi National Museum.

The exhibition—presented through a partnership between the Embassy of Italy, the Italian Institute of Culture, and the Italian Trade Agency—features 50 historic menus that chronicle Italy’s evolution in cuisine, culture, and global influence. Organizers describe it not simply as a collection of artifacts but as a “cultural masterclass” showcasing how Italy has harnessed food as a cornerstone of national identity, diplomacy, and economic growth.

In her address, CS Miano praised the exhibition’s emphasis on Italy’s “Blue Zone” philosophy, noting that the region’s plant-based diets, active lifestyles, and strong social bonds offer important lessons for modern wellbeing. She underscored the relevance of these principles to Kenya, calling for renewed efforts to promote the country’s own traditional foods, safeguard local biodiversity, and showcase indigenous culinary practices as a competitive strength in tourism.

“Kenya has a rich tapestry of flavours and food traditions that reflect our history, our lands, and our people,” she said. “We must protect this heritage and elevate it—not only for our health and cultural pride, but also as a driver of tourism and sustainable development.”

The evening also featured a captivating sculptural dining table created by Maestro Cascella in partnership with Kenyan artisans. The artwork, blending Italian craftsmanship with Kenyan creativity, served as a symbolic centerpiece of the exhibition and a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration.

CS Miano encouraged Kenyans and international visitors alike to attend the exhibition, which runs from 20th November to 10th December, inviting them to immerse themselves in the stories, traditions, and shared values woven through Italian and Kenyan culinary heritage.

“May this exhibition inspire us to celebrate our own food culture with the same passion and pride that Italy has shown the world,” she added.

The exhibition is open daily at the Nairobi National Museum.