"African cultures are so diverse," Goualebanzoume says. "When we organize exhibitions, we often want to expose them all. Nevertheless, Shenzhen's experiences have told us that we'd better choose a relatively small angle and refine the cultural products with more expertise."

Henri Randrianierenana, a theater manager from Madagascar who was also on the team, says the rise in digital devices in his country has enabled youth to better understand modern Chinese culture.

"In Madagascar, young people are also glued to their smartphones all the time, much like the scenario in China," he says.

"I am sure that if (video) games and social network apps from Shenzhen were introduced to Madagascar, they would be extremely popular."

People long held stereotypical perspectives of China because the world's traditional media, which is dominated by the West, projected China in such images. But new technology has now created the space for Chinese and Africans to communicate directly and better, he says.

With more Africans understanding Chinese culture better, Randrianierenana says a mechanism to send more Chinese cultural professionals to Africa will also become necessary.

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn