Author: Chen Guoqiong, Ye Sijing

Publisher: Publicity Department of JNU Party Committee

Date: March 28, 2025

On March 21, 2025, a welcoming ceremony was held at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University to celebrate the arrival of the 13th batch of Chinese medical teams aiding Ghana. The event was attended by notable figures including Sun Yu, Secretary of the Party Committee of Jinan University; Deng Linfeng, Deputy Secretary of the Joint Party Committee of Private Hospitals and Health Societies of the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission; Chen Quan, Director of the Exchange and Cooperation Department of the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission; and others from health services and local government, all expressing gratitude for the team's remarkable contributions.

(At the welcoming ceremony)

During their mission, the medical team provided essential care to 6,305 patients, performing 313 surgeries, including seven life-saving procedures, and conducting 2,391 sessions of traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture and moxibustion. Their exceptional medical skills and commitment to patient care earned them thank-you letters and 17 banners from organizations, including UNESCO.

Reflecting on their year-long journey, the team left for Ghana on March 7, 2024, composed of 11 dedicated members, including specialists from various medical fields, a translator, and a chef. After undergoing comprehensive training, they arrived at the China-Ghana Friendship Hospital in Accra to begin their aid mission.

(At the farewell ceremony)

Crossing over 10,000 kilometers, these medical professionals faced numerous challenges in Ghana, encountering a landscape marked by dire health conditions and a severe shortage of medical resources. Many patients suffered from untreated conditions, leading to devastating outcomes, such as blindness from cataracts and preventable deaths from appendicitis.

(Zhang Rijia conducts ophthalmic slit lamp microscopy)  

(ZHOU Lin attends to patient.)

(XIN Xiufeng attends to patient.)

Zhang Rijia, captain of the team and an ophthalmologist, noted the alarming prevalence of untreated ailments that devastated many lives. She emphasized the team's role as a last hope for patients whose families exhausted all other options, stating, “We seem to be their last line of defense.”

(Team members are having a consultation in the ward.)

(In the midst of surgery)

Over the year, the medical team adopted a continuous rotation work mode, tackling diverse and urgent medical cases. They performed numerous laparoscopic surgeries and provided critical treatments, sometimes working late into the night to ensure that children with epilepsy received the care they needed.

(Donation Ceremony at the Orphanage)

(The medical team offers support for overseas Chinese sports events in Ghana.)

In addition to clinical duties, team members took on teaching responsibilities, training local medical staff to enhance their skills and knowledge. This commitment to education is a testament to their dedication to sustainable healthcare improvement in Ghana.

(PAN Ying and CHEN Bimin are consulting)

Throughout their mission, the team also engaged in charity work and free clinics, providing health consultations and services in local communities. They organized and participated in Citizens Service Week, and conducted health check-ups at orphanages, offering treatments to vulnerable children.

(Interpreter LI Chenfei)

(Chef XU Xiaohe)

Their efforts extended beyond local populations; they also supported Chinese expatriates and conducted emergency training for fellow citizens living in Ghana. The team provided medical coverage for various Chinese community events, safeguarding the health of overseas compatriots.

The team's participation in conferences related to traditional Chinese medicine further showcased the rich cultural exchange and cooperation between China and Ghana.

Upon their return, team members expressed pride in their mission. Zhang Rijia stated that medical assistance to Africa represents a crucial link in strengthening China-Africa friendships. She and her colleagues are committed to continuing their efforts to bring hope and care to those in need.

As they returned home, Jinan University's “Assistance to Africa” team was celebrated for their courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication—a true embodiment of the spirit of humanitarian aid.

(Getting ready to return to China)

Welcome back, heroes!