Cultural exchanges between the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University in Kenya and Shandong Normal University were strengthened when an artistic group from the institute visited China in late September.

The Rambolo Dancers became the first Africa troupe supported by the headquarters of the Kenyatta University to perform in China.

Li Qiang, the Chinese director of the Confucius Institute, spoke highly of the visit.

"I hope very much that by hosting such a cultural event, both sides will strengthen their understanding, enhance their friendship and build a bridge of Sino-African cultural exchange," Li says, adding that Kenyatta University had high expectations for further cooperation between the two universities.

Dr Kamau Wango, the local director of the Confucius Institute, also expresses his sincere gratitude for the hospitality and friendship of Shandong Normal University.

"As the folk envoys of cultural communication, the performers, with their exquisite artistic attainments, showcase the culture of Kenya," he said.

The popular Kenyan song Jambo Bwana, which kicked off the performance, brought sincere greetings from Kenyan friends to their Chinese peers.

Duncan Wanbugu and Priscilla Gitonga, two artists from the School of Visual and Performing Arts, were part of the delegation.

The song My Way, performed by Duncan, called for people to strive ahead in the face of difficulties, just as the lyric says: "I did it my way, and you did it your way."

At the performance, Owalo, a girl's dance with a percussion instrument, and the Ramogi Dance, a masculine dance by boys, all expressed the hospitality and generosity of the Kenyan people and led the performance to the climax.

Chinese kung fu is a standard element. A demonstration by the martial arts and ethnic traditional sports department of the School of Sports of Shandong Normal University won applause.

panzhongming@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily Africa Weekly 12/02/2016 page22)