Chinese soap operas to air in Tanzania

Since the first Chinese TV soap operas dubbed in Swahili debuted Africa in 2011, they have become hits in various countries. Now, two more have been dubbed, and are set to be aired in Tanzania.

The art of television connects two peoples half a world apart.

The hit TV shows "Father's Wishes" and "Mother's Glorious Days" reflect family life in today's urban China. They will be aired starting this November during prime time by the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation through its TV channel TBC 1.

"I believe the Tanzanian people will learn much more about modern China through the TV series. They will better understand the developments of China in recent years, as well as the lives of Chinese people. It will deepen the friendship between the two countries," Cultural Counsellor of Chinese Embassy in Tanzania Liu Dong said.

The first Chinese soap opera to air in Africa is called "Mao Doudou and Her Sweet Days". This 36-episode light comedy is about a modern Chinese couple and their relationships with each other's families. It was dubbed in Swahili and broadcast in various countries in 2011, and has since become a smash hit. That success has encouraged both countries to cooperate further.

More TV series and movies will be dubbed in English, French, Arabic, Portuguese and Swahili for broadcast in Africa later this year.