After months of planning, discussions and preparations, something we had been working towards finally became a reality on 1 September 2026: our Japanese language classes officially began.
What started as an idea to introduce Japanese language learning to Kenyans gradually developed into a regular class, with students coming together four days a week to learn Japanese from the basics.
Our physical classes are being held at Gochi Japanese Restaurant in Westlands, Nairobi, a fitting location for students to learn Japanese while being surrounded by elements of Japanese food and culture. The classes are also conducted online, allowing students who cannot attend physically to participate remotely.
On the first day, there was a mixture of excitement and nervousness. It was the first time for the students learning Japanese and it was even newer experience for the teacher(lol).
During the first few weeks, the students began learning hiragana and katakana, gradually becoming familiar with the sounds and characters. What initially looked like a collection of unfamiliar symbols slowly started to become words that they could read and recognise.
The classes are also about more than simply learning vocabulary and grammar. Language provides a window into another culture. Through Japanese, students are discovering new ways of communicating, expressions that do not have direct equivalents in English, and aspects of everyday Japanese life and culture.
For me, seeing the class finally begin after all the preparation has been particularly meaningful. Starting something new always comes with challenges, and teaching a language is no exception. But seeing students consistently show up, ask questions and continue practising is encouraging.
Our goal is not simply to teach students a few Japanese phrases. We hope to build their language skills steadily and give them the confidence to communicate in Japanese. As they progress, we also hope that the language will open the door to greater interest in Japan, Japanese culture and the opportunities that come from connecting Kenya and Japan.
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