A model showcases Chinese-style attire on the runway during the China-Africa costume culture and art exhibition at the National Museums of Kenya, in Nairobi on September 10. Wu Xiaohui / China Daily

"I am excited to see what artistic sparks will emerge from this beautiful encounter between Chinese tradition and African style," Zhang said, noting that the runway featured innovative mamianqun designs incorporating African wax prints, bringing together traditional Chinese aesthetics and distinctive African creativity.

Zhou Jin, president of the Shandong Fashion Design Association, one of the event's organizers, said the association had brought a collection of precious mamianqun garments, some more than 100 years old, to the National Museums of Kenya for the exhibition.