The Shaolin Temple outside Lusaka serves as a striking cultural landmark, resembling a piece of central China set amidst Zambia’s landscape. The temple features vibrant dragon displays, with teenagers demonstrating impressive coordination as they manipulate the fabric dragons. Surrounding them, younger children practice martial arts under the guidance of instructor Yan Chen, who commands the group with energy.
This temple is Africa’s first of its kind, emblematic of a Buddhist martial arts tradition, occupying a substantial 20,000-square-metre area just north of Zambia’s capital. Donated by Chinese businessman Jiang Qingde, the temple’s construction represents a significant investment of approximately US$6 million. It stands as a testament to China’s growing cultural presence in Zambia, complementing extensive investments in various sectors like mining, roads, and infrastructure.
