How Tanzania-China friendship midwifed ‘Karibu Milele’ film

DAR ES SALAAM: TO jog your memory, Michael Renov a professor of critical studies at the USC School of Cinema-Television in 993, in his theorising about documentary forms made a distinction between four fundamental functions of documentary films: to record, reveal and preserve; to persuade or promote; to analyse and interrogate; and to express.

In his school of thought, he had it that a documentary film is one of the greatest ways of helping people understand reality on the ground, because when one is able to see the people involved in such a film, it lends a certain immediacy and understanding that is hard to get on the page.

That was also remarked by an American writer and journalist Lawrence Wright, emphasising that the visual medium of film has a profound impact on human connection and empathy. By showcasing real people and their stories through a documentary lens, viewers are able to witness the experiences, emotions and perspectives of individuals in a way that transcends written words on a page.

Furthermore, documentaries have the ability to transport viewers into the lives of others, fostering empathy, awareness and a deeper appreciation for different cultures, perspectives and struggles.

In essence, Lawrence Wright’s statement underscores the transformative power of documentary filmmaking in illuminating diverse stories and fostering empathy and understanding among audiences.

By capturing real-life moments and emotions on camera, documentaries have the potential to bridge gaps in understanding and ignite meaningful conversations about important issues that affect us all.

On a momentous occasion that symbolises the strong and enduring friendship between Tanzania and China, the Kiswahili drama “Karibu Milele” was officially launched last week in Dar es Salaam.

Through the lens of a camera, now Tanzanians can witness firsthand the challenges, triumphs, and complexities of real China Medical Teams lives in the country, sparking a sense of shared humanity and connectedness through the “Karibu Milele” film.

The launch ceremony, presided over by the Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports, Dr Damas Ndumbaro, marked a significant milestone in cultural collaboration between the two nations.

Accompanied by the Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian, Dr Ndumbaro emphasised the importance of cooperation between Tanzania and China in creating a special film that showcases their historical partnership, particularly in the liberation movement.

He said that cooperation between China and Tanzania has covered many fields, such as economy and trade, infrastructure, agriculture, medicine and health, and has achieved remarkable results. For example, China has started to send medical teams to the Tanzanian mainland and Zanzibar since 1968.

According to him, up to now, Chinese doctors have treated more than 3.6 million Tanzanian patients and meanwhile contributed to the improvement of the Tanzanian medical care environment.

“As I am speaking now, we have witnessed the Kiswahili version of TV episodes “Welcome to Milele,” starring Chinese and African famous actors, both shot in Tanzania and China, depicting the story of the China Medical Team’s work and life experience in Africa and their brotherly friendship with the fellow Africans.

Not only that, but also the relations between Tanzania and China have maintained co-production and distribution of films so that China can show Tanzanian films in China as the same applied in Tanzania,” expressed Dr. Ndumbaro.

He added that this fosters the increasing knowledge for Tanzanian film experts, officials, managers, theatrical groups, and other film practitioners.

The movie “Karibu Milele” serves as a testament to this collaboration and is set to be broadcast through Azam TV channel number 108 UTV, reaching audiences across the nation.

Esteemed guests, including government officials and cultural dignitaries, gathered to witness the unveiling of the Kiswahili version of “Karibu Milele,” a television drama that portrays the remarkable work of a team of Chinese health professionals who came to Tanzania to provide vital services.

This narrative underscores the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and highlights their shared commitment to mutual cooperation and understanding.

Ambassador Chen Mingjian delivered a heartfelt address during the launch ceremony, celebrating the success of “Karibu Milele” and expressing his joy at commemorating key anniversaries in China-Tanzania relations.

The TV drama, filmed in both China and Tanzania, beautifully captures the compassionate efforts of China’s medical team in assisting Africa and forging strong friendships within local communities.

Through extensive research and collaboration with local talents, the production team of “Karibu Milele” ensured an authentic representation of the narrative, resonating with audiences in Tanzania and beyond.

She further remarked that, in 2022, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and  Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, elevated the ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, setting an example for China-Africa relations in the new era.

“The decision to designate 2024 as the year of culture and tourism between China and Tanzania further underscores the commitment to enhancing cooperation and understanding between our peoples,” she expressed.

As the Kiswahili version of “Karibu Milele” makes its debut on Tanzanian screens, Ambassador Chen expressed optimism about deepening cultural exchanges and fostering greater understanding between the peoples of China and Tanzania.

She underscored the growth in political trust, robust cooperation, and flourishing cultural interactions that have characterised the longstanding partnership between the two nations.

Looking towards the future, Ambassador Chen highlighted China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Tanzania and nurturing mutual respect and friendship.

“This event shines a light on the enduring friendship between Tanzania and China, rooted in our shared history and commitment to mutual cooperation across social, economic, political, and cultural spheres,” she stressed.

She added, “The strong bond between our two countries dates back to the days of our esteemed founding leaders, the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Chairman Mao Zedong.

Today’s celebration is a testament to the deep and longstanding relationship that has been nurtured between our nations.”

The upcoming Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation presents an opportunity to further enhance collaboration and build a shared future that benefits both China and Africa.

The launch of “Karibu Milele” represents a significant step in promoting cultural exchange and celebrating the enduring friendship between China and Tanzania.

Through shared narratives and collaborative efforts, the ties between these two nations continue to prosper, inspiring cooperation and goodwill for generations to come.