Chinese experts promote women’s health awareness in Zanzibar
ZANZIBAR: CHINESE public health experts have conducted a health education campaign on female reproductive tract schistosomiasis and donated learning materials to students in Zanzibar as part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026.
The event, organised by experts from China’s technical assistance project on schistosomiasis prevention and control, was held at Chambani Primary School in Pemba Island under the theme “Building a Strong Health Defence Line and Guarding Women’s Future.”
More than 400 teachers and students participated in the programme, which focused on raising awareness about adolescent girls’ health and disease prevention in schools.
Speaking during the event, Deputy Director of the Jiangsu Institute of Schistosomiasis Prevention and Control, Mr Li Wei, said female reproductive tract schistosomiasis is a significant form of infection that can have long-term effects on women’s reproductive health.
He emphasised that strengthening health education among adolescents, particularly female students, is essential for early detection, timely treatment and ultimately achieving the goal of eliminating the disease.
For his part, Director of the Education Department in Pemba, Mr Mohammad Salim, expressed appreciation to the Chinese expert team for their continued support in technical assistance, capacity building and health promotion in schools.
He said the Chinese experts have contributed not only advanced disease prevention knowledge and professional skills but also support in strengthening school health education systems. During the event, Chambani Primary School was awarded the title of “Schistosomiasis Health Education Demonstration School” in recognition of its efforts in promoting disease prevention and health awareness, among students.
ALSO READ: Women’s health investment can add $1 trillion to global economy, says Pathfinder Tanzania chief
The Chinese project team also donated clothing, footballs and learning materials to help improve the learning environment and expand sports and recreational activities at the school.
In the health education session, Mr Liu Yaobao, a public health expert from the 35th China Medical Team to Zanzibar, delivered a presentation, explaining the causes, symptoms and prevention of female reproductive tract schistosomiasis.
He highlighted the importance of avoiding contact with contaminated water, maintaining proper hygiene practices and seeking medical care promptly when symptoms appear.
Organisers said the event, held in connection with International Women’s Day, aimed to link women’s health awareness with broader public health efforts.
They added that the initiative has helped improve awareness of schistosomiasis prevention among teachers and students while highlighting the practical outcomes of China–Africa cooperation in disease prevention and control in Zanzibar.
