"It's wonderful to see local students perform in fluent Chinese. As the theme of this year's competition goes – one family, one world – we are a family connected by language," he said.

He expressed his gratitude to the Chinese embassy in Kenya, competition organizers, for selecting UoN as the venue, and he applauded the StarTimes Group for sponsoring the event.

Wang Xuezheng, counselor at the Chinese embassy in Kenya, said he was impressed by students' performances and love of the Chinese language and culture.

Wang said learning Chinese will enhance exchanges between Kenya and China, as well as act as a link between the people both countries.

"The interest to learn the Chinese language and culture by the students is an indication that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow," he said.

The competition was divided in two parts: speech and talent. Sixteen students from four Confucius Institutes at UoN, Kenyatta University, Moi University, and Egerton University, participated in the competition.

Winners were awarded prizes including certificates, trophies, StarTimes boxsets, bluetooth speakers and digital televisions.