Kenya and China have renewed their commitment to expanding cultural exchanges and cooperation in the creative sector with the launch of the China-Hunan Film Week in Nairobi.
The three-day event, taking place from June 9 to 11, features a selection of Chinese films aimed at introducing Kenyan audiences to China’s culture and storytelling traditions. The initiative forms part of activities commemorating the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Organized by the Hunan Province Film Administration alongside other Chinese partners and Kenyan stakeholders, the festival seeks to use cinema as a platform for cultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration within the film industry.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Luo Zhengmao, Deputy Director of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Hunan Province, said film plays a vital role in fostering friendship and cultural exchange between China and Africa. He noted that the event builds on the success of the China-Africa Film Week held in Hunan last year, where African productions, including Dreaming of Nairobi, were showcased.
Luo said the initiative coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and African nations and offers an opportunity to deepen understanding and cooperation through storytelling.
Kenyan officials welcomed the event as a catalyst for greater collaboration in filmmaking, skills development, and creative industry growth. Kenya Film Commission CEO Timothy Owase said the film week goes beyond entertainment by creating opportunities for filmmakers from both countries to share expertise and develop joint productions.
He added that Kenya is positioning itself as a leading destination for international film projects and co-productions, with partnerships such as the China-Hunan Film Week expected to support talent development, technological innovation, and economic growth.
Representing the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Director of Film, Animation and Gaming Noah Otiede described film as a powerful cultural tool that promotes understanding among communities. He said the festival provides a valuable platform for learning, dialogue, and industry partnerships while supporting the development of future storytellers.
Chinese Embassy Minister Counsellor Zhang Zhizhong said the event reflects broader efforts to strengthen cultural exchanges under China’s Global Civilization Initiative. He emphasized the importance of respecting different cultures and highlighted shared values between the initiative and Africa’s Ubuntu philosophy. Zhang also pointed to the growing international influence of Chinese cinema, citing the global success of the animated film Ne Zha 2.