Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe and China on Thursday marked the 40th anniversary of the China Medical Team’s mission in Zimbabwe, highlighting a long-standing partnership that has played a crucial role in strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
Since 1985, China has deployed 21 visiting medical teams to Zimbabwe, consisting of over 200 medical experts and 90 short-term assistance personnel.
These teams have collectively treated more than 93,000 patients, particularly in remote and under-served areas.
The milestone was celebrated at the Chinese Embassy in Harare, where senior government officials and representatives from the Chinese government commended the partnership’s contributions to Zimbabwe’s health sector. The event also honored the outgoing 21st China Medical Team, which has been in Zimbabwe since March 2023.
Speaking at the ceremony, Health and Child Care Deputy Minister, Timios Sleiman Kwidini praised the Chinese medical teams for their efforts overthe past four decades, saying they had played a significant role in improving healthcare delivery in Zimbabwe.
“For the past 40 years, these teams have been at the forefront of delivering quality healthcare to our people, often in the most remote and under-served areas,” he said.
He noted that the 21st China Medical Team alone had treated over 14,000 patients and trained more than 1,000 local healthcare workers. It also contributed to the establishment of key medical facilities, including the Tele-medicine Centre, First-Aid Training Centre, and Clinical Skills Training Centre at Parirenyatwa Hospital.
“These efforts have not only saved lives but have significantly enhanced the capacity of our healthcare system, leaving a legacy that will benefit future generations,” Kwidini said.
One of the flagship programs of the China Medical Teams, the “Bright Journey” initiative, has provided free cataract surgeries to Zimbabwean patients. In its most recent mission, the program restored sight to more than 600 people.
Beyond medical assistance, China has played a key role in developing Zimbabwe’s health infrastructure. Some of the major projects supported by China include the construction of Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital, the Mahusekwa China-Zimbabwe Friendship Hospital, and the National Pharmaceutical (NatPharm) Warehouse in Harare.
Kwidini said the partnership with China served as an example of what countries can achieve through mutual cooperation. “The partnership between Zimbabwe and China in the healthcare sector serves as a shining example of what nations can achieve when they collaborate with mutual respect and friendship,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges, particularly in the health sector.
“Today’s world is marked by profound changes and uncertainties, from health crises to economic disparities. It is more important than ever for nations to come together, as Zimbabwe and China have done, to build a united and prosperous global community,” he said.
As the 21st China Medical Team concluded its mission, the event also welcomed the incoming 22nd team. Kwidini expressed confidence that the new team would continue the work of its predecessors and make a meaningful impact in Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.
Chinese Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Cheng Yan commended the dedication of the Chinese medical teams, saying their work reflected China’s commitment to global health cooperation.
He urged the incoming team to collaborate closely with Zimbabwean medical professionals to ensure continuity of services.
“You are not only coming to treat patients but also to exchange skills and expertise with your Zimbabwean colleagues. You are envoys of China-Zimbabwe friendship, and I look forward to your contributions to the Zimbabwean people and our bilateral relations,” he said.
The China Medical Teams are part of a broader China-Zimbabwe health partnership, which continues to strengthen the country’s healthcare system through medical support, training, and infrastructure development.
New Ziana
