In a landmark event held at the Niamey General Reference Hospital in Niger, the nation celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Chinese Medical Team’s enduring presence. The ceremony, chaired by Niger’s Minister of Public Health and Hygiene, Colonel-Major Garba Hakimi, highlighted five decades of collaboration that have transformed healthcare access across the country.
a legacy of healthcare excellence and solidarity
The Minister extended his deepest gratitude to the Chinese medical professionals, praising their unwavering dedication, discipline, and professionalism. He emphasized how their continuous support has strengthened Niger’s health infrastructure, improved patient care, and enhanced the skills of local healthcare workers. In acknowledgment of this milestone, the Chinese government presented a significant donation valued at 99,244,000 francs, comprising essential medicines and medical supplies to the hospital.
transforming lives through medical cooperation
Colonel-Major Garba Hakimi underscored the tangible impact of this partnership, which spans patient treatment, medical training, skill transfer, and the introduction of advanced medical techniques. Thousands of Nigeriens have received high-quality care, while local health personnel continue to benefit from ongoing capacity-building initiatives. The Minister also honored China as a strategic ally committed to supporting Niger’s healthcare development goals. “We look forward to a future where this cooperation continues to yield even greater benefits for our people,” he stated.
China’s enduring commitment to african health
The Chinese Ambassador to Niger, H.E. Lyu Guinjun, reflected on the remarkable journey since China’s Guangxi region began sending nearly 800 skilled doctors and nurses to Niger five decades ago. Together with their Nigerien counterparts, these medical professionals have treated nearly 1.8 million patients, fostering deep bonds of friendship and solidarity. He highlighted China’s vision of a global community of shared health, championed by President Xi Jinping and supported globally. Recent legislative milestones in China, including the 15th Five-Year Plan, are set to further strengthen health coordination between the two nations.
bridging continents through medical diplomacy
Du Zhenzong, head of the Guangxi Health Commission delegation, described the Chinese medical teams not just as healers but as ambassadors of Sino-African friendship. Over 50 years, they have delivered medical services to over 2.3 million people, trained more than 45,000 healthcare workers, and built lasting relationships with local communities. Their contributions have played a pivotal role in strengthening Niger’s health system and improving public well-being.
strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare future
Daou Mamane, Director-General of the Niamey General Reference Hospital, warmly welcomed the anniversary celebrations and the generous donation of medicines. He praised the Chinese teams for their consistent support in elevating Niger’s healthcare standards. “This gift will directly benefit our patients and reinforce our national health system,” he affirmed. The event concluded with a symbolic exchange of gifts and the formal signing of a new cooperation agreement between Niger and China, reaffirming their shared commitment to health and development.
