The Chinese Medical Team in Sierra Leone has launched the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Pilot Project for the benefit of people in Sierra Leone.

In the commemoration of Acupuncture  Day on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, it was highlighted that the project aims to enhance healthcare services in Sierra Leone by integrating TCM practices.

Traditional Chinese Medicine, a therapeutic method with thousands of years of history, involves techniques like acupuncture, which uses fine needles inserted at specific points to stimulate energy pathways, or “meridians,” to regulate Qi (vital energy), balance Yin and Yang, relieve pain, boost immunity, treat chronic conditions, and promote overall wellness.

During his keynote address, Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Charles Senessie expressed great enthusiasm for the project, praising President Bio’s unwavering dedication to human capital development. He emphasized the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and China, which has been further solidified through mutual support, particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Senessie called for a collective commitment to advancing African traditional medicine alongside Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pledging the full support of the ministry for the project and the continued expansion of sustainable healthcare across Sierra Leone.

“I envision the Traditional Chinese Medicine project extending beyond Freetown to reach all regions of Sierra Leone. With strong ministry support, our goal is to establish a sustainable healthcare system that prioritizes quality care,” Dr. Senessie stated, reaffirming the ministry’s dedication to promoting TCM for human capital development.

Representing the Chinese Ambassador, Zhang Dianbin described TCM as a national treasure of China, boasting a 5,000-year legacy and millennia of practice. He shared President Xi Jinping’s vision of globally promoting TCM to prevent and treat diseases, ultimately contributing to a healthier world.

Dianbin highlighted TCM’s crucial role in combating COVID-19 and revealed that TCM practices are now present in 196 countries, supported by over 100,000 registered practitioners worldwide. China has dispatched medical teams to 76 countries, each including at least one TCM specialist.

Zhang commended the longstanding health cooperation between China and Sierra Leone, a relationship that has endured for 50 years. This partnership has seen both countries join forces to combat Ebola and COVID-19, with China supporting the construction of the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital.

Furthermore, Zhang announced plans for a paired hospital project aimed at introducing telemedicine, thereby enhancing healthcare collaboration between the two nations.

“In recent years, we have achieved significant milestones through our collaborative efforts. By leveraging each other’s strengths, we have been able to drive innovation and progress,” Zhang emphasized the importance of continuing to learn from one another to further advance our shared goals.

Dr. Mark Kapuwa, the Manager of Connaught Hospital, highlighted the numerous advantages of international partnerships. He emphasized the value of knowledge exchange, implementation of best practices, and the mutual support that has bolstered Sierra Leone’s healthcare capabilities. As the largest referral hospital in the country, Connaught Hospital plays a pivotal role in providing high-quality healthcare services, benefiting greatly from these global collaborations.

The TCM project between China and Sierra Leone aims to enhance access to quality healthcare services for the people of Sierra Leone. This initiative is built on a foundation of cooperation and the exchange of medical expertise, with the ultimate goal of improving healthcare outcomes for all.