China Media Group, in collaboration with the government and local media houses, have unveiled the Twinkle Star animation exhibition tour to screen its original cartoons in Kenyan schools.
Drawing support from the United Nations Children’s Fund, the tour aims to introduce African children to the best of Chinese animations.
Through the painting competition, CMG together with China Central Television also aims to have more African children take part in the event by using art to express social issues.
This is with a focus on building more friendships and a brighter future for China and Africa.
Speaking during the launch, Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage CS Penina Malonza said that the exhibition is part of the activities planned to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the China-Kenya diplomatic relations.
This is to enhance the friendship between the people of both countries.
“Kenya and China enjoy vibrant bi-lateral ties that are based on mutual understanding, and positive engagements which continue to be strengthened by frequent eye-level visits between the two countries,” Malonza said.
She also said that the marketing of cultural goods through art exhibitions has given Kenyan children an opportunity to showcase their artworks in China.
“Cultural exchange is yet another area where experts and practitioners have been exposed to new skills, techniques and experiences that have been beneficial to both countries. This has propelled the development of the cultural sectors in both countries,” Malonza said.
The Twinkle Star project will feature a travelling exhibition, screening of original animations as well documentaries in Kenyan schools and painting competitions on social issues.
“This will undoubtedly provide an invaluable boost to Africa-China corporation,” Malonza said.
Broadcast and Telecommunication PS Edward Kisiang’ani noted that the 60 years China-Kenya relations have been wonderful and have affected how economies are run and education skills are shared.
“The connection between China and Kenya brings people who are celebrating cultural diversity to the table. Through this competition, I know that we are going to imagine technology, politics, tourism among other sectors through animation,” he said.
Eastern Africa Editors Society executive director Churchill Otieno said that the competition is designed to encourage creativity, innovation and imagination among Kenyan children.
He encouraged Kenyan children to indulge in the competition and let their imaginations run wild.
“We believe that this competition will find us unique with original ideas that will capture the hearts and minds of our children, in Kenya, the region and around the world,” Otieno said.
“We also hope that this will be a platform for them to express themselves and build their potential in delivering stories from Kenya as well as the Eastern Africa region. We want to see the next generation of animators and possible filmmakers. ”
The event was also graced by UNICEF education specialist Fariza Baidaly, Radio Africa Group Head of Content Paul Ilado, Chinese envoy, governmental officials, international organisations representatives as well as other media stakeholders.
The project which is expected to run until the end of the year will feature select CMG cartoons which include “Zhang Qian, the Envoy” featuring a Chinese official whose travel outside of China 2100 years ago contributed to the creation of the ancient Silk Road.
