By Dawda M. Jallow
The Gambia on Thursday received the 24th Chinese Medical Team, consisting of 10 specialist doctors who will support healthcare delivery in the country’s major health facilities.
The arrival ceremony took place at the Banjul International Airport, where officials from the Ministry of Health and the Chinese Embassy welcomed the delegation.
Speaking at the reception, Second Secretary at the Chinese Embassy in The Gambia, Xian Sun, expressed satisfaction at the arrival of the team, describing it as a continuation of long-standing health cooperation between the two countries.
She said the deployment marked the 10th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between The Gambia and China, noting that health remained a key pillar of bilateral cooperation.
According to her, previous Chinese medical teams have contributed to surgical services, maternal and child healthcare, malaria prevention, and broader health promotion activities across the country.
Sun says the new team comprises highly qualified specialists committed to supporting Gambian health professionals and improving service delivery.
On behalf of the Ministry of Health, Director of Health Services, Dr. Momodou T. Nyassi, welcomed the delegation and thanked the Government of China for its continued support to The Gambia’s health sector.
He said the deployment of the specialists came at a critical time following the recent inauguration of a new health facility in Farato, which is expected to improve access to healthcare services.
Dr. Nyassi said the doctors will be stationed at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), where their expertise will strengthen specialized medical services.
He described the partnership between The Gambia and the Chinese Medical Team as productive, noting that it has also contributed to capacity building for Gambian medical professionals through training and exchange programmes.
He added that China had also supported the health sector through the provision of medical equipment and other resources aimed at strengthening national healthcare delivery.
Dr. Nyassi expressed optimism that the latest medical team would further enhance the country’s ongoing efforts to improve health infrastructure and service delivery.