Story of KBC Journalist Who Left China to Report in Swahili

Swahili Journalist Zakia Peng during an interview on Tuesday March 21, 2023
Swahili Journalist Zakia Peng during an interview on Tuesday, March 21, 2023
KBC

Zakia Peng, a Chinese national has gained popularity among Kenyans for her fluent Swahili on the national broadcaster, the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). 

Peng who hosts Ifahamu China show narrated her journey during an interview on Tuesday, March 21.

The programme gives Kenyans insights into China including its culture, technology, and political affairs.

In the interview, that the explained noted her love for the language grew while in the university noting, "I learned Kiswahili in the University for four years."

Journalists Zainab Said (left) and Zakia Peng (right) at the KBC studios on Tuesday March 21, 2023
Journalists Zainab Said (left) and Zakia Peng (right) at the KBC studios on Tuesday, March 21, 2023
KBC

In addition, Peng stated that the famous 'Lion King' movie was also an inspiration to her. She added that the phrase "Hakuna Matata" attracted her to the language.

She noted that with the growing interaction between China and East African countries, it was essential to learn the language.

Peng encouraged those seeking to learn a new language to first understand the culture of the locals by interacting with the. She disclosed that she had traversed Tanzania and other East African countries to grasp the language.

However, the journalist highlighted the challenges of learning Swahili in comparison to the Chinese language.

Meanwhile, Peng affirmed that with the help of her team, she is able to produce the beloved programme watched not only by Kenyans but the rest of the world.

"With the show, we aim at educating our audience on all subjects including science, agriculture, and technology in China," she disclosed.

"We first choose a topic, then compile video clips with the help of our team," she added.

Additionally the journalist works on a second show 'Nuru ya Mashariki' that covers matters of economy and Chinese social life.

"We continue to learn the language to ensure we connect with our audience in the best way," she remarked.

She is among foreign journalists who have gained a huge following in Kenya. Others made a name for themselves on radio and TV.

A file image of journalists covering a past live event.
A file image of journalists covering a past live event.
File