By Foday Moriba Conteh
In a recent gesture of international solidarity, the 25th Batch of the China (Hunan) Medical Team (CMT) in Sierra Leone organized a donation ceremony at the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital. The event, which featured the donation of essential medical supplies, was attended by key representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, including Secretary Xia Yinyin and Liu Siyu.
The donation encompassed a wide array of over 60 types of medications, consumables and reagents, reinforcing the hospital’s capacity to provide high-quality care. Secretary Xia Yinyin, during her address, highlighted the long-standing partnership between China and Sierra Leone, which spans five decades. Since China sent its first medical team to Sierra Leone in 1973, 25 teams have since served in the country, working on the frontlines of healthcare. These teams have brought medical supplies, technical assistance, skilled personnel and their efforts have earned deep appreciation from the people of Sierra Leone.
The ties between the two nations have only grown stronger this year, following President Bio’s two official visits to China, further solidifying the friendship and cooperation in areas such as healthcare. Secretary Xia emphasized that the donation will bolster the capabilities of the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, directly benefiting the health and well-being of local communities.
Dr. Samuel Ngaujah, the Acting Director and Head of the hospital’s obstetrics and gynecology department, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued support from the CMT. He remarked that this donation exemplifies the enduring bond and shared commitment between the two countries. “The ongoing collaboration with the China Medical Team showcases their dedication to the welfare of the Sierra Leonean people and reflects the genuine friendship between our nations,” he noted.
In his concluding remarks, CMT Team Leader, Lu Chaoqun, pledged that the China Medical Team would remain devoted to its mission of serving the health needs of Sierra Leone. “The journey of China’s medical assistance abroad is far from over and the commitment of Hunan’s medical professionals continues steadfastly,” he stated. Lu Chaoqun assured that the team would tirelessly work toward enhancing healthcare outcomes in Sierra Leone and fostering even stronger ties between the two countries.
The ceremony concluded with a shared sense of optimism and resolve, with both nations looking forward to deeper cooperation in health and medical services. This donation, along with the continued partnership, promises to advance medical capabilities at the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital and contribute to the sustained health of Sierra Leonean communities.
