Dr. Li Jie- Correspondent
Harare, Zimbabwe –In a vibrant display of cross-border solidarity and health partnership, the Chinese (Hunan) Medical Team stationed in Zimbabwe played a pivotal role in the success of the “Run Together, Win Together” event, organized by the Zimbabwe Defense University on October 8.
Against the sunny skies of Harare, runners of all ages took to the course—but behind the scenes, a dedicated team of Chinese doctors stood ready, ensuring that every participant could push their limits safely.
The China medical team brought together specialists from orthopedics, anesthesia, internal medicine, and pediatrics. Well-prepared for common race-day issues like muscle cramps, dehydration, and heat exhaustion, the team arrived armed with defibrillators, comprehensive first-aid kits, and essential medicines.
What stood out, however, was their adaptive two-tier support strategy: a combination of fixed medical points and mobile patrol units. This ensured that even remote stretches of the race route had timely medical coverage. Special attention was given to senior runners, with veteran medic Dr. Xiong Xi shadowing the older groups on the move, offering both reassurance and rapid response capacity.
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But it wasn’t all clinical care. During breaks, the medics mingled freely with local families. The Chinese Doctors was spotted sharing light-hearted football moments with Zimbabwean children, offering playful tips on injury prevention while letting the youngsters take the spotlight.
“It’s not just about healing—it’s about connecting,” Dr. Zheng XingYou，captain of the China medical team noted. “Whether we’re checking vitals or playing ball with kids, we’re building trust and friendship, one gesture at a time.”
The presence of the Chinese medics resonated deeply with participants and spectators alike. “They were more than doctors—they were motivators,” shared one local runner. “Knowing they were with us every step of the way made all the difference.”
Through their dual role as health guardians and cultural ambassadors, the Chinese medical team illustrated a simple yet powerful truth: when nations run together, they also grow together.
The Chinese Medical Team is stationed at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare and has carried out outreaches as far afield as Hwange and Buhera and served thousands of Zimbabweans.
Dr. Li Jie, from The 22nd China Medical Team is the Deputy Chief Physician of the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital
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