The Chinese government yesterday handed over computers and electronic gadgets valued at close to US$60 000 to the Ministry of Education, Art, Sports and Culture as part of efforts to enhance cultural exchange between the two countries. Speaking during a hand over ceremony, Education, Art, Sports and Culture Deputy Minister Lazarus Dokora said the gadgets would be used to ease work in the department of culture at provincial and district level.

"They will use the computers in pursuing the creation of cultural databases and communication," said Deputy Minister Dokora.

"Further, the ministry is actively involved in the community inventory of our nation's intangible cultural heritage and the recording equipment will come handy."

The Minister said the gift was a reflection of the unity existing between the two countries.

"The people of China have their history intricately linked with that of the people of Zimbabwe dating back from the days of our fight for liberation and independence," he said.

The Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Lin Lin, said cultural exchange was imperative in fostering a solid foundation to the efforts by the two countries to unite.