By Sulaiman Barrie
On Thursday, June 26, 2025, Sierra Leone marked a major milestone in expanding its healthcare landscape with the launch of the ‘1st Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Appropriate Technology Training Program.’ This groundbreaking initiative reflects the deepening collaboration between Sierra Leone and China in the health sector.
The official opening ceremony took place in Freetown, with Captain Liu Longfei, Leader of the 26th Chinese (Hunan) Medical Team to Sierra Leone, delivering the opening address. He underscored the importance of the strong and enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and China, noting that his team has been instrumental at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital in Jui since their arrival in March this year.
“Working side by side with local doctors, we have provided thousands of outpatient, emergency, and surgical services. In response to the widespread challenges posed by chronic and infectious diseases, we have integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern Western medicine to develop more systematic and comprehensive treatment solutions,” said Captain Lu Longfei.
“But we deeply understand that true medical assistance is not only about offering help – it is about building local capacity. Therefore, we place great emphasis on technology transfer and sustainable training,” Captain Liu Longfei further emphasised.
The introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) training in Sierra Leone carries significant promise. In a country where access to conventional healthcare can often be limited, the integration of TCM offers valuable alternative and complementary treatment options.
The training program is thoughtfully structured to provide in-depth instruction in core Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques, including meridian theory, acupuncture, tuina (manual therapy), and cupping. A key focus of the course is on practical clinical applications, particularly in treating lumbar disc herniation, an ailment commonly seen in Sierra Leone.
Also speaking at the event was Wang Peng, Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy, who highlighted the rich history and global relevance of TCM. He noted its unique strengths during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and its longstanding impact on healthcare.
“Traditional Chinese Medicine has a history of more than 5,000 years. Over the centuries, it has developed its own unique theories and treatment methods, including herbal remedies, acupuncture, and other specialised techniques,” Peng explained.
The event was attended by government dignitaries, healthcare professionals, media personnel, and members of the public, who welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm. Many highlighted its timeliness, especially as Sierra Leone continues to face challenges within its health sector.
“As we stand at the forefront of medical advancement, it’s crucial we acknowledge the remarkable contribution of the Chinese medical team in Sierra Leone. Expertise and professionals have served Sierra Leone for a very long time, and now we need to acknowledge them,” said Junior Bio, Sierra Leone’s Sports Ambassador.
Upon successful completion of the program and final assessment, participants will be awarded an official TCM Appropriate Technology Certificate. They may also have the opportunity to apply for clinical shadowing at the TCM Centre of the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
