The 20th Chinese Medical Mission to Senegal conducted an academic exchange on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and a training course for Senegalese participants at Fann Hospital in Dakar, the Senegalese capital, on Friday.
The Chinese Medical Mission partnered with the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Dakar and Fann Hospital to address the local shortage of medical resources. It is part of the Chinese efforts to implement the spirit of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation regarding foreign medical aid.
"Today, we are launching this TCM training program to share Chinese medical culture and practical TCM techniques with our Senegalese counterparts. The goal is to help more Senegalese people understand and use traditional Chinese medicine," said Yang Yiguo, head of the 20th Chinese Medical Mission to Senegal.
According to the project, the medical mission will offer three three-hour academic sessions on May 16, 23, and 30. This training is intended for approximately 30 rehabilitation students from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Dakar, rehabilitation physicians, and technicians.
The courses combine theory and practice, covering TCM culture, basic theories, acupuncture point therapy, moxibustion, cupping therapy, and Baduanjin (a traditional Chinese aerobic exercise). This training has received a positive response from local doctors and patients.
"I think this partnership helps diversify the care offered to our patients, and therefore the treatment options," said Ngor Side Diagne, head of the Rehabilitation and Intensive Care Department under Fann Hospital.
"I came for a consultation about headaches. Usually, I treat myself with conventional medicine. But today, I tried traditional Chinese medicine and I find it very relaxing and soothing," said Awa Diop, a Senegalese patient.
It was in 1975 that Fujian Province in southwest China sent its first medical mission to Senegal. Chinese medical missions have been operating in Senegal for half a century. They have thus become an essential symbol of Chinese-Senegalese friendship.
To date, China has mobilized 20 medical missions and more than 300 healthcare professionals to Senegal, providing healthcare services to more than 3.5 million patients.
Chinese medical mission in Senegal provides training in traditional Chinese medicine
Chinese medical mission in Senegal provides training in traditional Chinese medicine
