Zimbabwe Traditional Medicine Director Leads Unive...

Zimbabwe Traditional Medicine Director Leads University Delegation to China-Zimbabwe TCM Centre, Deepening Medical Exchange

Dr Li Jie, ZimNow Correspondent

Mr Onias Ndoro, Director of Zimbabwe’s Department of Traditional Medicine, recently spearheaded an educational delegation of over 60 students and faculty members from Great Zimbabwe University’s Medical School to the China-Zimbabwe Traditional Chinese Medicine Center in Harare.

The delegation conducted an in-depth examination of the center’s evolution into Southern Africa’s largest integrated TCM facility, encompassing clinical services, academic training, and research initiatives.

During interactive sessions led by TCM specialists, participants gained comprehensive insights into foundational principles such as the yin-yang doctrine (illustrating dynamic balance within the human body) and meridian theory (mapping pathways of vital energy). Students further engaged in hands-on experiences, observing and receiving demonstrations of acupuncture and cupping therapies under professional supervision.

A notable segment of the tour included Africa’s first purpose-built “TCM First-Aid Cabin,” an innovative clinical space designed for emergency interventions. The delegation also explored meticulously arranged exhibitions showcasing TCM’s 3,000-year historical legacy, diverse medicinal herbs (including regionally adapted varieties), and specialized diagnostic/therapeutic instruments.

The visit culminated in a high-impact practical training module. Under the guidance of seasoned Chinese medical experts, Zimbabwean students mastered critical emergency response techniques through simulated scenarios. Key skills covered: standardized cardiopulmonary resuscitation protocols, operational procedures for automated external defibrillator deployment, choking response maneuvers tailored for adults, children, and infants, systematic wound management including hemorrhage control, burn care, disinfection, and fracture stabilization methods, and safe patient-transport principles.

This immersive program significantly enhanced participants’ understanding of both traditional Chinese medical philosophy and evidence-based emergency care protocols. By facilitating knowledge transfer and cross-cultural dialogue, the visit reinforced collaborative pathways in health innovation between Zimbabwe and China. As a flagship institution for Sino-African medical diplomacy, the China-Zimbabwe TCM Centre continues to serve as a vital bridge for advancing bilateral healthcare capacity, cultural exchange, and global health equity.

Dr. Li Jie from The 22nd China Medical Team in Zimbabwe is Deputy Chief Physician of the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital.