Joseph Isangura
A celebration of color, culture, and community spirit unfolded in the coastal suburb of Kawe, where Tanzanians and Chinese nationals came together to mark the Dragon Boat Festival, an annual Chinese tradition with a legacy spanning over two millennia.
The event was hosted by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), which is currently spearheading various infrastructure projects in Tanzania, including the notable Jangwani Bridge. Held as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the festival brought to life the rich tapestry of Chinese heritage while promoting mutual understanding between the two nations.
Throughout the day, the venue transformed into a bustling cultural village. Families and children participated in traditional activities like crafting miniature dragon boats, weaving five-colored silk bracelets, and preparing zongzi—sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, a symbolic dish during the festival.
“The Dragon Boat Festival isn’t just a Chinese holiday,” said Mr. Richard Muyambo, a representative of the CCCC Jangwani Bridge project. “It’s a reminder that progress involves more than roads and bridges. It means building connections between people and cultures.”
Present at the event was Ms. Rayia Nassor, Chairperson of the Kawe Mzimuni local government. She praised CCCC’s efforts in community development. “From providing educational support to assisting children with special needs, their contribution goes far beyond construction,” she remarked.
The festival commemorates the life and sacrifice of Qu Yuan, a revered Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and integrity during the Warring States period. Legend has it that after his death, villagers paddled out in boats to scare away fish and evil spirits, giving birth to the dragon boat tradition.
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The celebration also featured cultural performances, including martial arts demonstrations, local music, and interactive games such as ring toss, all of which drew enthusiastic participation from both adults and children. Faculty members from Ardhi University joined the festivities, echoing the importance of academic and cultural exchange.
A representative from CCCC summed up the spirit of the day: “Just as dragon boats move forward only when everyone rows together, so too do our nations grow stronger through unity, respect, and collaboration.”
As dusk settled over Kawe, attendees left not only with handcrafted souvenirs and the sweet taste of zongzi but also with lasting memories and a shared sense of purpose — a testament to the enduring power of cultural dialogue in a globalized world.
