MONROVIA – The Chinese Embassy near Monrovia has officially bid farewell to the 17th China Medical Team and welcomed the 18th China Medical Team to Liberia during a ceremony hosted by the Liberian Ministry of Health.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh -websterclayeh@frontpageafricaonline.com
The event brought together over 100 attendees, including: Liberia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu, Members of the 17th and 18th China Medical Teams,
Representatives from the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, the Medical and Dental Council, along with Liberia-China Friendship Organization.
Expressing appreciation for the 17th China Medical Team’s service, the Chinese Ambassador welcomed the incoming 18th team as he described the transition as a symbol of enduring Liberia–China friendship and cooperation.
He praised the outgoing team for strengthening clinical care and surgical services, as well as supporting medical training programs for Liberian professionals.
Ambassador Yin emphasized that health cooperation remains central to China–Liberia relations.
“China is committed to building a global community of health for all,” Ambassador Chengwu said.
He also presented medical supplies aimed at improving maternal and child healthcare at the grassroots level.
Also speaking, Health Minister Dr. Louise M. Kpoto thanked China for its continued support to Liberia’s health sector highlighted contributions in health infrastructure development, capacity building, along with provision of essential medical supplies.
“This partnership has enhanced our health institutions and empowered Liberian medical professionals through knowledge sharing and mentorship,” she stated.
Dr. Kpoto noted that China’s contributions includes support to hospitals specialized medical services, skills transfer programs, medical equipment and supplies, and so on.
Reflecting on her personal experience, she shared that she benefited from training by a Chinese medical team member at JFK Medical Center.
The partnership she said has long-term benefits beyond patient care. “The Chinese doctors not only treated patients but also invested in teaching us,” she said.
Dr. Kpoto acknowledged potential challenges in Liberia’s health system as she encouraged resilience and dedication. She assured them of the Ministry’s full support, adding, “Your work will make a significant difference in the lives of Liberians.”
The transition between the 17th and 18th China Medical Teams highlights the ongoing partnership between Liberia and China, particularly in strengthening healthcare delivery and building local medical capacity.
