Zanzibar hails China health support

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government has pledged to continue strengthening cooperation with China to improve access to quality healthcare in the isles.

Acting Minister for Health, Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, said this during a farewell ceremony for China’s 35th Medical Team and a third team of experts supporting the fight against schistosomiasis.

Dr Mkuya said Zanzibar has greatly benefited from the Chinese doctors, with patients receiving treatment for various conditions while local health workers gained skills through training and close collaboration.

The team served at Lumumba Regional Referral Hospital and Jitimai Hospital in Unguja, as well as Abdalla Mzee Hospital in Pemba, working alongside local professionals to deliver care and strengthen specialised skills.

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They also conducted outreach services in 186 villages, supporting efforts to control schistosomiasis. The Minister said significant progress has been recorded in Pemba, where major strides have been made in reducing the disease.

She said Zanzibar is preparing to receive another team of specialists in March to boost the campaign, while China’s 36th Medical Team is expected in November.

Chinese Consul in Zanzibar, Li Qianghua, said China will continue working closely with the Zanzibar government to improve healthcare services.

He said cooperation will expand to include hospital and community healthcare delivery, medical equipment support and capacity building for local professionals.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Mngereza Mzee Miraji, said the partnership has delivered strong results, especially in Pemba.

He said prevalence of schistosomiasis has dropped from 1.6 per cent to below one per cent, placing Zanzibar on track to eliminate the disease in line with World Health Organization guidelines.

Dr Miraji described the progress as a major achievement, noting that few countries have reached such a stage. He attributed the success to increased investment in the health sector and cooperation with partners, particularly China

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