The Gambia has welcomed the 23rd batch of the Chinese Medical Team in Banjul, continuing a decades-long partnership in healthcare between the two countries.

Speaking at the arrival ceremony, Dr Momodou T. Nyassi, representing the minister of Health, highlighted China’s annual support through medical teams and recalled that the relationship dates back to the colonial era when China helped construct four health facilities in the country.

Representing the Chinese Embassy, Councillor Zhan Tong praised the ongoing cooperation, noting that many Gambian health workers had travelled to China this year for capacity-building programmes, a milestone he said would further strengthen bilateral ties.

“This partnership is a great achievement for both our countries,” Mr Tong said.

He also warmly welcomed the team, including the first female member ever to join the Chinese Medical Team in The Gambia.

Dr Cherno S. Jallow of the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital expressed gratitude as the 23rd team arrived to relieve the outgoing 22nd team, reflecting on the benefits of the collaboration.

“We are thankful for the invaluable support and knowledge shared by our Chinese colleagues over the years,” Dr Jallow said.

Team leader Dr Lin Lin thanked the Gambian people for their warm welcome and pledged to work closely with local hospitals.

 “We look forward to joining hands with the Ministry of Health to treat patients and achieve our shared goals,” Dr Lin said.

The Chinese Medical Team will be deployed across major hospitals in The Gambia, providing clinical care, training, and community health outreach as part of their year-long.

By Adama Makasuba