For many Kenyans, China is a country they know mainly through stories, news and what they see online. But Phabians Olungah got the chance to experience the country for himself after spending a full year there as an international student. Speaking on Mwelekeo TV, he shared his experience of living, studying and interacting with Chinese people, while also challenging some of the common ideas Kenyans have about China.
One of the first things Phabians addressed was the belief that Chinese people all look alike or that they are generally short.
His experience was different. After arriving in China, he realised that the country is much larger and more diverse than many people outside it may imagine.
It has different regions and ethnic communities, with people having different physical appearances and cultures.
Food was another area where his experience challenged some common stories. Before travelling to China, Phabians had heard many things about the kind of food people eat there. However, he found the meals enjoyable and varied.
He came across ordinary meat, chicken prepared in different ways and noodles, among other foods.
He also found ways of preparing familiar Kenyan meals using ingredients available locally.
His experience also gave him an opportunity to observe how China is governed and how its political system differs from that of Kenya.
China operates under a one-party system, unlike Kenya’s multi-party democratic system. Phabians said that while the political structures are different, he was impressed by what he saw as the country’s focus on development and practical results.
He pointed to China’s progress over the past several decades, including major improvements in infrastructure, education and living standards.
He noted that hundreds of millions of people have been lifted from poverty as the country developed into the world’s second-largest economy.
For him, development should not only be discussed through political statements or policies. It should also be visible in the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
Phabians also shared his experience as an African living in China. During the year he spent there, he said he did not experience discrimination.
He found many people willing to help, even when communication was difficult because of the language difference.
He also observed that many Chinese people were focused on their daily work and responsibilities rather than constantly paying attention to foreigners.
Safety and order were other aspects of life in China that stood out to him. He described the streets as generally safe and noted the widespread use of security cameras.
One experience that remained in his mind was when he accidentally left his phone at a historic site. When he returned later that day, he found it still there.
For him, the incident reflected the level of honesty and discipline he encountered during his stay.Education was another important part of his experience. Phabians explained that many universities in China are government-run and provide relatively affordable education for local students. He was particularly impressed by the emphasis placed on practical skills, research, technology and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence.
He also observed that Chinese students are encouraged to develop skills that can be applied beyond the classroom.
In his view, this connection between education, research, technology and the needs of the economy contributes to the country’s ability to develop quickly.
After returning to Kenya, Phabians said his experience had changed the way he viewed his own country.
He believes Kenya has talented people and valuable resources, but needs a stronger sense of shared purpose and better use of skilled citizens. He also stressed the importance of accountability and a deeper commitment to national development.
For young Kenyans considering studying or working abroad, his experience suggests that China could offer more than academic opportunities.
It can also provide exposure to a different culture, education system and approach to national development.
At the same time, his story shows the importance of experiencing other countries directly rather than relying entirely on assumptions and stories.
Mwelekeo TV is the visual storytelling arm of Mwelekeo Insights, a Kenyan research firm. The platform creates conversations around research, public opinion and issues affecting society in Kenya and beyond, giving guests an opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives on matters that shape everyday life.
