Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi director Prof. Wang Shangxue speaking during the opening ceremony of the China animated film festival, Nairobi on November 11, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAI
The University of Nairobi will until November 30 screen Chinese animated films as part of the events to mark the ongoing China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season.
The collaboration, aimed at boosting Chinese tourist numbers and having more Kenyans travel to China for various programs, is part of the deal President William Ruto signed when he was hosted by his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in April this year.
The screening started on Tuesday at the University of Nairobi's Confucius Institute and would see students and interested Kenyans of all ages participate.
Five films have been selected for the show, with the same expected to be at the country's other Confucius Institutes at Moi, Egerton and Kenyatta universities.
Prof Wang Shangxue, director Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi, led the official launch of China Animated Film Festival on Tuesday.
"This festival helps in cultural exchanges. Students learn Chinese culture and teachers learn Kenyan culture," she said, emphasising the place of language as a key pillar of the exchanges.
"Last year, we had a film festival and this year is special because we have gone animated," she explained.
University of Nairobi student Purity Wamuyu, director Confucius Institute at UON Prof Wang Shangxue and University of Nairobi director of Corporate Affairs John Orindi during the opening ceremony of the China animated film festival at the Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi on November 11, 2025. /LEAH MUKANGAI
The films will be broadcast in other countries outside Nairobi.
"We have a plan to visit Migori and Busia. We will show the movie there and let the people interact with the Chinese culture. We are looking forward to the spark it may create in Migori county," Wang said.
She went on, "We are hoping to carry Kenyan culture back to my country."Prof Wang said
Citing her experience from a book she bought in Watamu, highlighting the matatu culture, the don said some of the teachings in the films and literary pieces sit well with ideals held by the cooperating sides.
"The theme sits well with our ideals on environmental protection," she said of the book.
Confucius Institute teaches Chinese language and associated proficiencies.
"We don't have just one way of teaching as we also integrate culture aspects. I am elated that the students know the Chinese movie stars since they can quickly take up the language," Wang said.
Students during the opening ceremony of the China animated film festival at the Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi on November 11, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAI
This saw China Media Group, the Asian economic powerhouse's largest, live stream the Wildebeest migration, one of the seven wonders of the world.
President Ruto launched the event at Maasai Mara, even as Chinese tourist numbers are projected to exceed the 100,000 recorded last year.
Chinese opera performances have also been showcased in Nairobi. A dance troop from Inner Mongolia perfomed at the Kenya National Theatre recently.
China has also held a cooking competition featuring chefs from Kenya and China. The competition was hosted at Kenya's Utalii College.
For the films, they chose to use animation because the kids and young adults enjoy.
"It is more welcome by the students and older people. Aim is to reach more and easily get them endowed with the culture," Prof Wang said.
"The festival will last more than three weeks and will be shown at different Confucius Institutes - also at Kenyatta University, Moi University and Egerton University."
The Chinese embassy in Nairobi and Kenya Film Commission are part of the participating agencies.
Animated films acted by Kenyans will also be showcased alongside the animated films, as preludes.
Confucius Institute also has Kung Fu teams, Lion Dance clubs and choirs.
The festival opened with the poetic and historically rich "Chang An," which paints a picture of China's Tang Dynasty through the legendary friendship of poets Li Bai and Gao Shi. The film intertwines historical fact with poetic imagination, exploring their contrasting pursuits of ambition—Li Bai's free-spirited quest for artistic truth and Gao Shi's steadfast dedication to loyalty and responsibility.
It depicts ancient architecture and clothing, immersing the audience in a bygone era of cultural prosperity.
Also on the list is "New Gods: Yang Jian". It presents a stylish and modern reimagining of a beloved mythological hero.
The film depicts Yang Jian not as a flawless deity, but as a guilt-ridden young man stripped of his divine power, now working as a bounty hunter.
It offers global audiences a fresh and compelling take on Chinese mythology.
"White Snake," a romantic fantasy inspired by one of China's most classic legends, is also on the reels.
The story follows Blanca, a snake demon who loses her memory, and A Xuan, the kind-hearted human who rescues her.
As Blanca embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries of her past, a deep and powerful emotional bond blossoms between them.
However, their forbidden love faces immense obstacles and dangers from both the human and demon worlds, testing their devotion and resolve.
The film weaves a timeless tale of love and sacrifice.
Also to feature is the "Green Snake," a sequel of the "White Snake".
It shifts the focus to Blanca's younger sister, Verdona, on her own journey of self-discovery.
In the aftermath of her sister's story, she navigates a path filled with challenges that force her to overcome hatred and define her own identity, separate from her sister's shadow.
The film showcases a bold and modern side of Chinese animation.
The fourth film, "I Am What I Am", celebrates the traditional Chinese performing art of lion dancing.
The film focuses on themes of perseverance, cultural pride, and the power of teamwork as its characters face numerous challenges and setbacks.
Through their journey, they learn the invaluable importance of friendship and believing in themselves.
The animation captures the beauty and dynamic energy of the lion dance, realistic acrobatic movements blended with dramatic effects.
Finally, the festival presents the fun and futuristic adventure "Boonie Bears: Future Reborn".
The characters navigate a surprising and high-tech future environment, where they must rely on their courage and resourcefulness to adapt and survive.
The film combines lighthearted comedy with themes of family and resilience.
