Launch of Sing for Africa Season 2 and China–Africa Women and Youth Development Dialogue

The second season of Sing for Africa, a China–Kenya music talent initiative, was officially launched on Friday, August 7, 2026, with a renewed focus on discovering and nurturing young female African musicians. Initiated by the Hunan Broadcasting System, one of China’s leading television networks, the programme combines Chinese television talent-show expertise with Kenyan production capabilities to create a platform for African talent.

The first season attracted more than 5,000 applicants in Kenya, with over 600 participating in physical auditions. Beyond the competition, several contestants later received opportunities to appear on Chinese variety programmes, demonstrating the potential of the initiative to open new doors for African artists.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of an agreement between the University of Nairobi and the China Centre for International People-to-People Exchange. The partnership will seek to expand opportunities for young people through culture and talent development, while strengthening people-to-people exchanges and collaboration between Kenya and China.

The agreement reinforces the University of Nairobi’s commitment to strategic international partnerships that create opportunities for young people to develop their talents, acquire new skills and participate meaningfully in social and economic development.  

Speaking during the launch, Zhang Zhizhong, Minister Counselor and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, highlighted the important role women play in social and economic development. He noted that women in China, often described as half the sky,have contributed significantly to national development, while African women continue to make notable progress in economic empowerment, professional advancement and political participation.

Anne Wang’ombe, Principal Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action in Kenya’s Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services, emphasized that empowering women and youth is not merely a social obligation but an economic and strategic imperative. She noted that initiatives such as Sing for Africa can help transform creative passion into sustainable livelihoods by providing young people with platforms, skills and professional opportunities

 According to Sammy Dee, Executive Director of Sing for Africa, the second season builds on the achievements of the inaugural edition by creating a dedicated platform for young women who possess musical talent but may lack the opportunities and networks needed to pursue their ambitions professionally.

“Season one proved the model. Season two goes further,” Dee said, explaining that the new season will introduce an academy where contestants will receive training, mentorship and guidance from industry professionals.

The initiative draws inspiration from China’s experience with successful female-focused talent programmes such as Super Girl, which became a major television phenomenon and created opportunities for young women to pursue careers in music.

The launch of Sing for Africa Season 2 and the China–Africa Women and Youth Development Dialogue demonstrate the growing potential of culture as a powerful tool for youth , women’s advancement, talent development and sustainable livelihoods.

Through partnerships such as this, the University of Nairobi continues to position itself as a key platform for connecting young people with opportunities while strengthening China cooperation in education, culture, talent development and people-to-people exchange.