Africa-Press – Gambia. The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Banjul on Friday hosted a ceremonial reception to bid farewell to the 22nd Chinese Medical Team and welcome the 23rd team, underscoring China’s continued commitment to supporting The Gambia’s healthcare sector.
Held at the Embassy’s premises in Bijilo, the event was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, healthcare professionals, members of the National Assembly Select Committee on Health, and other dignitaries. The ceremony marked yet another milestone in the longstanding medical partnership between The Gambia and China.
The 22nd Chinese Medical Team recently concluded a one-year mission at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), where they performed complex surgical procedures, conducted outpatient consultations, led public health education efforts, and contributed significantly to the training and capacity building of local medical personnel.
Their successors, the 23rd Medical Team, will continue this legacy, further strengthening China’s support of The Gambia’s national health care delivery system.
In his remarks, Chinese Ambassador H.E. Liu Jin praised the outgoing 22nd Chinese Medical Team for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and the significant contributions they made during their mission in The Gambia.
“After the resumption of diplomatic ties between the two nations, China Medical Teams have returned to The Gambia, upholding the spirit of “featuring no fear of hardships, willingness to dedicate, saving lives and great love”. In the past days and nights, the 22nd China Medical Team has overcome language, infrastructure, and logistical challenges to provide quality care to thousands of Gambian patients,” he said.
Ambassador Liu further noted that the team’s professionalism and commitment had earned widespread appreciation from all sectors of Gambian society. Stating “Their commitment and professionalism have earned high praise and recognition from across Gambian society. On behalf of the Chinese Embassy, I extend my heartfelt thanks and deepest respect to every member of this outgoing team.”
Lamin Dampha, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, also expressed appreciation for China’s continued support to The Gambia’s health sector.
“Two Months ago, we received another medical team from China at the EFSTH & they not only provide services in the hospital, they also went around the country to provide very valuable services to the people of this country,” he added.
ChatGPT said:
Dr. Mustapha Bittaye, Chief Medical Director of Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, expressed gratitude for the longstanding medical partnership between China and The Gambia, highlighting its positive impact on the country’s healthcare delivery.
“China has supported the factory in this country that is responsible for the production of the people that take care of our women, our children and that is the EFSTH. This is where we train doctors,” He Said.
Captain Cai, the outgoing leader of the 22nd team, reflected on the rewarding experience of serving in The Gambia and thanked both the Chinese and Gambian authorities for their support.
Meanwhile, Captain Lin, head of the newly arrived 23rd Medical Team, introduced the team members and pledged to uphold the high standards set by their predecessors, promising continued dedication to the health and well-being of the Gambian people.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press