By Komba Fillie
On Thursday 9th April 2026, the 27th Batch of the Chinese Medical Team in Sierra Leone donated a consignment of medical supplies and anti-malaria drugs to the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital as part of their ongoing support to the people of Sierra Leone.
The donation also serves as a longstanding tradition of support to improve the country’s care delivery system and the broader health sector. The handover ceremony took place on Thursday.
Speaking at the event held at the Chinese hospital in Jui, east of Freetown, the 27th Batch Team leader, Dr. Li Zheng, expressed satisfaction in contributing medicines and equipment aimed at improving hospital operations and benefiting local communities. “We are happy to donate these supplies to support the development of the hospital and serve the people,” Dr. Li said, adding that the team is committed to strengthening cooperation with local medical staff. He noted that since their arrival about three weeks ago, the team has established a strong working relationship with their Sierra Leonean counterparts.
Dr. Li further pledged continued donations, free medical outreach services to communities, and skills transfer initiatives throughout their 18-month stay.
In his remarks, the Medical Superintendent of the hospital, Dr. Augustine Tarawally, underscored the importance of the donation. He commended the Chinese team for its consistent contributions to Sierra Leone’s healthcare system. “The Chinese are friendly and have greatly contributed to transforming the health sector in Sierra Leone,” he said, expressing gratitude for their timely support. Dr. Tarawally disclosed that the donated items include disposable and non-disposable materials such as gloves, scissors, medicines, surgical and anaesthetic equipment, as well as antimalarial drugs, all of which will enhance service delivery at the facility. He added that while medicines at the hospital are sold on a cost-recovery basis, the donated supplies will be used to assist patients who cannot afford emergency care.
Dr. Tarawally further highlighted the presence of a neurosurgeon within the Chinese team, noting that Sierra Leone currently has only one specialist in that field. It is expected that the Chinese expert will not only make donations but also provide training and contribute to teaching, research, and clinical innovation for Sierra Leonean healthcare workers while discharging their duties.
