Patience Muchemwa
Zim Now Reporter
University of Zimbabwe Confucius Institute Choir is taking road trips around the country presenting captivating blends of Chinese and Shona songs, highlighting the strong cultural ties between Zimbabwe and China.
This Friday they serenaded the staff at Africa's second largest tile manufacturing company, Sunny Yi Feng in Norton.
In an interview with Zim Now, University of Zimbabwe Confucius Institute co-director, Dr Laston Mukaro said the mandate of the institute is to avail opportunity to any Zimbabwean wanting to access Chinese language services while also helping Chinese people understand Zimbabweans better.
“The aim of Confucius Institute is to move Zimbabwean culture to the Chinese people and vice versa,” said Dr Mukaro.
Dr Mukaro said there is commitment by both countries to creating a more interconnected and culturally aware global community.
The Confucius Institute has expanded from the University of Zimbabwe to different places around Zimbabwe through school programmes and have presence in Matabeleland North and Midlands, with plans to reach Masvingo soon.
Students who performed at the event demonstrated the importance of the Confucius Institute in strengthening cultural ties and fostering personal growth.
Alliance Gorioto, emphasised the institute’s role in bridging Zimbabwean and Chinese cultures, effectively bringing people together as one family.
“This Confucius Institute is about strengthening the relationship between Zimbabwe and China, we are exchanging cultures so that we can be one as a family with the Chinese.”
For Tinotenda Ziwocha, learning Chinese through the Confucius Institute has opened doors to pursue higher education in China, an opportunity that otherwise may not have been possible.
“I am excited about learning Chinese because it opens some doors for me as I want to study for my Masters’ degree in China.”
Michael Malone Mutume, who performed the late Oliver Mtukudzi’s songs, shared his dedication to keeping the legendary musician’s legacy alive and promoting Zimbabwean music internationally.
Through these students’ testimonials, it’s clear that the University of Zimbabwe Confucius Institute is making a significant impact on the lives of young individuals by providing valuable cultural exchange experiences, educational opportunities, and a platform for artistic expression.
The event showcased the rich cultural exchange between the two nations and emphasised the importance of fostering such connections through the arts.
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