Maina Soko Medical Centre has officially bid farewell to the 28th Chinese Military Medical Team following the completion of its tour of duty in Zambia.
Speaking during a farewell banquet and medals parade held on Thursday, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Mambo Haamaundu commended the team for strengthening healthcare services under the Zambia Defence Force. He noted that medical cooperation between Zambia and China has spanned more than 40 years and continues to deliver tangible benefits to both defence health services and the wider public.
Haamaundu described the occasion as a reflection of the longstanding relationship between Zambia and the People’s Republic of China, built on mutual respect and practical collaboration. He added that the outgoing team contributed through complex medical procedures and skills transfer to local professionals.
He further expressed government’s appreciation to the Chinese government for the continued deployment of medical teams, describing the exchanges as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation. He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to expanding collaboration in medical equipment, technology, training and capacity building, and wished the team a safe return home.
Chinese Embassy chargé d’Affaires Wang Sheng thanked the Zambian government and defence forces for their support, noting that military medical cooperation between the two countries dates back to 1984. He said the partnership has produced positive results over the past 42 years through continued deployments of Chinese medical experts.
Sheng said the 28th team carried out complex surgeries, provided patient care and helped establish specialised departments tailored to local needs. He added that the collaboration focuses not only on treating patients but also on strengthening local capacity through training and mentorship.
Maina Soko Medical Centre Commandant Brigadier General Dr. Levy Muchemwa said the multidisciplinary team enhanced clinical service delivery and worked closely with local personnel while maintaining military medical standards. He said the hospital is preparing to receive the incoming 29th Chinese Military Medical Team, which is expected to include a radiologist, biomedical engineer and nephrologist to further strengthen capacity.
Oh ok, progressing one step at a time.