Sun Tzu inspires new generation of Kenyans

The seminal publication of The Art of War by Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu has provided inspiration to Kenyan youth, keen to confront present challenges and chart a brighter future.

Students from the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University, Kenya's second-oldest university, say that after reading Sun Tzu's works, they feel a sense of urgency to be optimistic, courageous and agile in the face of challenges.

Kenyatta University recently set up a Study House of Sun Tzu, where his influential works are on display and available for reading by local students and their tutors.

Eddy Paul Kirimi, a 20-year-old Chinese language student at the university's Confucius Institute, says he learned about the publication of The Art of War while doing online research, triggering his curiosity.

"The book itself talks about the art of war. I think it helps a lot in life and also in jobs. The most outstanding lesson I have learned from the book is that in any situation, you have to be courageous and strong," Kirimi says.

He adds that upon reading the book, he learned about the virtues of determination, perseverance, focus and strategic calculation to achieve success in life.

Kirimi says that Sun Tzu's works have provided a window through which local youth observe and appreciate Chinese culture, philosophy and wisdom.

During the discussion about Sun Tzu's seminal works with fellow youth, Kirimi says there is a consensus that life is full of challenges, but armed with wisdom and courage, one can always find a solution.

In 2023, Kirimi enrolled at Shandong Normal University in Jinan, Shandong province, for a six-month Chinese language course, exposing him to the country's rich culture.

Kirimi admires some aspects of Chinese culture, such as the use of chopsticks and the diverse array of traditional costumes. He envisions a future where cross-cultural exchanges flourish between Kenya and China.

"Creating this connection between the two countries will help us because many Chinese are opening their companies in Kenya and they need translators," he says.

Sun Tzu was a notable military theorist and strategist during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). His seminal work, The Art of War, holds significant sway over both Western and Eastern philosophies and military doctrines.

With a Study House of Sun Tzu in place at Kenyatta University, local youth including Phyllis Wahura Maina have vowed to deepen their understanding of Sun Tzu and apply his enduring wisdom in real life.

As a Chinese language student at the university's Confucius Institute, Maina says that since she started reading Sun Tzu's book, it has influenced her to think positively, strategize in a more targeted manner, and appreciate Chinese culture.

According to Maina, the book has also taught her the value of thinking ahead, confronting life's challenges head on even as she has encouraged fellow Kenyans to use it as a guiding light while pursuing their life goals.

The 24-year-old, who has benefited from a one-year study tour in China, says she looked forward to robust Sino-Kenya cooperation in the realm of economy and culture.