Chinese experts support Zanzibar’s efforts to eradicate schistosomiasis

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR has welcomed a new team of Chinese medical experts to step up efforts against schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease (NTD) still affecting communities on both Unguja and Pemba.

The third batch of experts under the Second Phase of the China-aided schistosomiasis control project arrived on Unguja Island last Tuesday (August 26, 2025), and immediately launched field activities after handing over from the outgoing team.

At a welcoming reception hosted by the Zanzibar State House, President Hussein Ali Mwinyi praised the efforts being taken by the People’s Republic of China to improve health in the country.

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The specialists have already visited key institutions, including the Ministries of Health and Water, Energy and Minerals, the Zanzibar Health Research Institute (ZHRI), and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) programme offices.

Their work is focused on high-risk villages where infection rates exceed five percent, as well as health facilities monitoring disease trends.

A major intervention under the new phase is the construction of safe water supply systems in three vulnerable villages on Unguja. By reducing dependence on contaminated water bodies, the initiative aims to lower transmission of schistosomiasis and other water-borne diseases.

Professor Wang Wei, leader of the expert team, said the focus will be twofold: expanding integrated control measures on Unguja—including safe water, snail host control, diagnosis, treatment and health education—while consolidating progress already achieved on Pemba.

He added that advanced tools such as nucleic acid testing, AI-assisted parasite identification and environmental DNA (eDNA) detection will be introduced to provide early warnings and track risks in water bodies.

“We are committed to adapting China’s proven experience to Zanzibar’s local conditions,” Prof. Wang said. “Together with local partners, our goal is to achieve elimination of schistosomiasis in Zanzibar and contribute solutions to global tropical disease control.”