…as new Chinese Medical Team arrives
Moroke Sekoboto
THE 20th Chinese Medical Team has arrived in Lesotho, marking another milestone in the long-standing health cooperation between the two countries.
Speaking at the Chinese Embassy in Maseru yesterday during the farewell ceremony of the 19th Medical Team – comprising nine doctors – and the welcoming of the new nine-member team, Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho, Yang Xiaokun, reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services in Lesotho.
He praised the outgoing team for their resilience, dedication, and compassion, highlighting their willingness to endure hardship and their unwavering devotion to patients.
“This is my second time witnessing the rotation of the Chinese medical teams in Lesotho. This year’s rotation, however, carries special significance as it marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Africa,” Mr Xiaokun said.
He said 2026 has been designated the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, emphasising that healthcare cooperation remains a key pillar of this relationship.
“Medical and healthcare services are closely linked to the well-being of Basotho. Cooperation in this field is an essential component of people-to-people exchanges between our two countries,” he said.
Mr Xiaokun said China stands ready to deepen collaboration by introducing advanced medical technologies, training healthcare professionals, and enhancing service delivery.
He highlighted progress under the Paired Hospital Cooperation Mechanism Project, which includes plans to establish an intensive care unit (ICU) at the China-aided Maseru District Hospital. The initiative aims to strengthen critical care services and improve the country’s capacity to diagnose and treat severe illnesses.
“Lesotho needs it, and China responds,” he said, noting that four ICU experts from Wuhan No.1 Hospital were recently deployed to Maseru to train Basotho. In the next phase, Basotho doctors and nurses will receive further training in China.
Mr Xiaokun also underscored China’s support in addressing HIV/AIDS and improving the welfare of women and girls. He announced that the “Eliminating the Triple Threat in Girls and Young Women in Lesotho” project—implemented in partnership with UNAIDS—will launch this month in Mokhotlong.
Backed by over US$2 million (M33.7 million) in funding, the initiative aims to reduce new HIV infections, gender-based violence, and early and unintended pregnancies. It is expected to benefit more than 20,400 people through strengthened health systems, community-led interventions, and improved access to essential services.
Minister of Public Works and Transport Matjato Moteane, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, expressed gratitude for China’s continued support.
“The bond between our two nations has flourished across various sectors, but it is in healthcare that we see some of the most transformative outcomes,” Mr Moteane said.
He described the medical teams as leaving a lasting impact on the country’s health system, contributing to improved service delivery and capacity building.
“Our partnership with China forms part of broader strategic cooperation that continues to yield benefits in infrastructure, education, and economic development. This sector remains a shining example of what international collaboration can achieve—saving lives and building a better future,” he said.
Mr Moteane reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the partnership, particularly in skills transfer and sustainable development.
He also noted that the Chinese Medical Teams embody the spirit of people-to-people cooperation, bringing not only medical expertise but also cultural exchange and human connection.
“Through their daily interactions with our communities, they deepen mutual understanding and strengthen the bonds of friendship between our peoples,” he said.
He further highlighted China’s role in Africa’s development through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which he said has helped shift focus towards socio-economic growth.
Mr Moteane reiterated Lesotho’s support for the One-China Policy, affirming recognition of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing China.
Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, ’Maneo Ntene, said the transition between the outgoing and incoming teams reflected the enduring partnership between Lesotho and China.
“As we bid farewell to the 19th Chinese Medical Team and welcome the new team, we are reminded of a relationship built on mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared commitment to improving lives,” she said.
