Dr. Li Jie- Correspondent
A Chinese medical team recently visited the Zimasco ferrochrome smelter in central Zimbabwe, providing free health checks, emergency training, and introducing traditional Chinese wellness exercises to local workers and residents.The initiative, led by the 22nd Chinese Medical Team (Hunan) assisting Zimbabwe, aimed to deliver much-needed healthcare services directly to an industrial community where medical resources are often scarce.
Held on December 3 under the theme “Health for Workers, Care for the Community,” the outreach included consultations across multiple specialties such as respiratory medicine, neurology, general surgery, orthopedics, urology, pediatrics, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Before consultations began, the team conducted a “First Responder” training session, teaching cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the Heimlich maneuver to plant employees and community members. Through demonstrations and practice, participants learned how to act in emergency health situations.
“We wanted to equip people with skills that could save lives before professional help arrives,” said one of the medical trainers.
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The clinic saw strong turnout, with workers seeking relief from job-related aches and respiratory issues, and local residents receiving care for hypertension, chronic pain, and digestive problems. Doctors provided diagnoses, treatment advice, and free medicines where appropriate.
A highlight for many was the introduction to Baduanjin, a gentle Chinese exercise consisting of eight coordinated movements. Led by TCM doctors, the session attracted enthusiastic participation from locals curious about this traditional form of health maintenance.“This exercise made my shoulders feel much better – and it’s fun!” shared one worker after joining the practice.
Over 150 people received medical services, more than 100 participated in emergency training, and a significant number joined the Baduanjin session. The team also donated essential medicines and medical supplies to the facility.
Management at Zimasco and community leaders expressed gratitude for the visit. “The medical team brought not only medicine and expertise, but also practical knowledge that strengthens our community’s health resilience,” said a plant representative.
The activity reflects the ongoing commitment of Chinese medical teams in Africa to support local health needs, share knowledge, and foster people-to-people connections through practical, culturally respectful engagement.
Dr Li Jie with serving with 22nd China Medical Team in Zimbabwe is Deputy Chief Physician of the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital
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