$600K Aid, 600 Free Cataract Surgeries from China’...

$600K Aid, 600 Free Cataract Surgeries from China’s Medical Mission

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

A team of Chinese medical experts has arrived in Zimbabwe, bringing nearly $600,000 worth of medical equipment, instruments, and pharmaceuticals to provide free cataract surgeries for 600 patients. The initiative, part of China’s long-standing medical cooperation with Zimbabwe, aims to restore sight and improve healthcare expertise in the country.

Led by Professor Hong Xiuqin, Dean of the Clinical Medical College at Hunan Normal University, the "Brightness Action" medical mission marks a significant milestone in the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Zimbabwe, as well as the 40th anniversary of their medical cooperation.

“It is my great honor to visit Zimbabwe for the first time as the team leader of China’s 'Brightness Action' medical mission,” Hong Xiuqin said.

“Zimbabwe is a country of remarkable beauty, and we are here to offer not just medical assistance but also hope to those suffering from preventable blindness.”

The team of 12 medical specialists from China is employing advanced cataract surgical techniques to help restore vision for hundreds of Zimbabweans, many of whom have suffered from vision impairment for years due to limited access to specialized eye care.

“China has dispatched 12 medical experts, equipped with nearly $600,000 worth of medical devices, instruments, and pharmaceuticals,” Hong confirmed.

“Our team will utilize advanced cataract surgical techniques to perform free surgeries for 600 Zimbabwean cataract patients, restoring vision and hope.”

Beyond surgeries, the Chinese medical delegation will engage in academic exchanges with local ophthalmologists, sharing expertise in cutting-edge cataract treatments to strengthen Zimbabwe’s healthcare capacity.

“We are committed not only to treating patients but also to enhancing local healthcare standards,” Hong stated. “Through academic exchanges, we hope to equip Zimbabwean ophthalmologists with the latest knowledge and skills in cataract treatment.”

The medical mission underscores China’s broader commitment to global health cooperation, particularly in Africa, where Beijing has consistently provided medical aid, expertise, and training programs over the decades.

Local health officials have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the critical need for specialized eye care in Zimbabwe, where cataracts remain one of the leading causes of blindness.

The 'Brightness Action' program is running over several days, with surgeries being conducted at designated hospitals in Harare and other regions. Patients selected for the program have expressed deep gratitude for the life-changing opportunity to regain their sight.

The initiative is part of China’s broader Belt and Road healthcare cooperation, which has seen Beijing dispatch medical teams, build hospitals, and provide scholarships for African doctors to train in China.