Poetry Recitation Competition bridges Kenyan and Chinese cultures

One of the participants, Millicent Ngugi, whose Chinese name is Meili, meaning beautiful, recited Ding Feng Bo by Su Shi, a celebrated poet of the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127).

"I have a better understanding of Chinese history because this poem was written in ancient times," she said. "I can picture the life, the culture, and the struggles people went through without modern technology."

Beyond Chinese language learning, the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University offers students a range of cultural experiences through programs such as the Chinese Corner, Culture Club, Martial Arts Club, and Poetry Recitation Club.

Luo Duoduo, a teacher at the institute, and Millicent's instructor, said more Kenyan students are developing a genuine interest in Chinese poetry, music, and entertainment. "Sometimes when they mention a Chinese celebrity, I even have to look them up myself," she said.

She said that beyond cultural interests, an increasing number of Chinese enterprises in Kenya are offering job opportunities to students who study Chinese, which makes the language both practical and enjoyable to learn.

Qiu Letao contributed to this story.