Tanzania and China deepen ties in the health sector after the Chinese medical team’s mission

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA, and China have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership in the health sector following the completion of the mission of the 27th Chinese medical team and the official arrival of the 28th team in Tanzania.

Speaking at a welcoming ceremony for the new team in Dar es Salaam on behalf of the Minister of Health, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Seif Shekalaghe, commended China for its contribution, noting that Tanzanian health professionals trained in China have continued to make significant contributions to improving the health sector.

Dr Shekalange commended the departing 27th Team for saving lives and building the capacity of local professionals, while warmly welcoming the new team.

Furthermore, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Director of the Department of Asia and Australasia, Felista Rugambwa, emphasized China’s continuous support since 1968, explaining that the cooperation has continued to expand from medical services to infrastructure construction and strengthening the professional capacity of health professionals.

“This cooperation continues to be a strong symbol of our enduring friendship and shared commitment to improving health services.”

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The Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian, said the 28-member team includes cardiologists, pediatricians and orthopedics specialists will improve health services and comfort for Tanzanians.

He added that the extensive cooperation has yielded significant results, including the establishment of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute and a 70 percent reduction in schistosomiasis and malaria in pilot areas.

The Director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health, Hamad Nyembea, said the team changes strengthen people-to-people ties between Tanzania and China

Expressing a word of gratitude on behalf of his colleagues, Dr Zhang Kai said the outgoing team had treated about  20,000 patients, explaining that their message was to “build bridges of friendship.”