Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lesotho Times
Published on 2024-04-04 06:19:25
Since 1997, China has been sending medical teams to Lesotho, greatly impacting the country’s health delivery system, according to Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane. The 17th batch of Chinese medical experts, who recently completed a one-year deployment in Lesotho, treated a total of 12,739 outpatients and emergencies during their time in the country. They performed operations, treated critical patients, and provided traditional Chinese medicine such as acupuncture.
At a farewell ceremony for the 17th batch and a welcome ceremony for the 18th cohort, it was revealed that the outgoing team set a new record by completing 13 operations in a single day. The new medical team will be stationed at the new Maseru District Hospital, which is set to open officially at the end of April or early May. This hospital, a gift from the Chinese government to the people of Lesotho, is a 200-bed facility aimed at improving medical services in the region.
China has sent over 180 doctors from Hubei Province to Lesotho, further enhancing healthcare services in the country. In addition to the hospital, China is funding three new projects in Lesotho, including the Police Fingerprint Examination Laboratory, Maseru Fire Station and Fire Engine project, and the Maseru Agriculture Storage and Logistics Infrastructure hub. These projects add to China’s existing assistance to Lesotho, such as the construction of the Mpiti-Sehlabathebe Road.
Chinese Ambassador Lei Kezhong highlighted the strong China-Lesotho relations, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation. He mentioned President Xi Jinping’s proposal for a China-Africa community of Health project, which aims to strengthen healthcare partnerships between China and African countries.
Mr. Mochoboroane expressed gratitude for China’s support and praised the departing medical team for their dedication during challenging times, including when local doctors were on strike. He encouraged the incoming team to continue the exceptional work done by their predecessors.
The Chinese government’s aid programs have also included training courses in China for over 800 Basotho individuals from various sectors. This human resource and capacity building initiative aims to enhance skills and knowledge in key areas like agriculture and renewable energy.
Overall, the partnership between China and Lesotho continues to strengthen, with a focus on improving healthcare, infrastructure, and human resource development in the country. The commitment to mutual cooperation and support underscores the positive impact of Chinese assistance in Lesotho’s development.
Read the original article on Lesotho Times
