In a landmark event held at Niamey General Reference Hospital, Niger marked the 50th anniversary of the Chinese medical team’s presence in the country. The ceremony, presided over by Niger’s Minister of Public Health and Hygiene, Colonel-Major Garba Hakimi, celebrated decades of collaboration that have transformed healthcare delivery across Niger.

strengthening healthcare through decades of partnership

The Chinese medical teams have been serving Niger since the 1970s, bringing advanced medical expertise, dedication, and professionalism to hospitals and clinics nationwide. Their contributions have significantly enhanced the country’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring more Nigeriens have access to quality medical care.

During the event, Minister Hakimi praised the Chinese team’s unwavering commitment, discipline, and medical excellence. He also highlighted the recent donation of 99,244,000 FCFA worth of medicines and medical supplies from the Chinese government, a gesture reinforcing bilateral ties and supporting Niger’s public health priorities.

key achievements in healthcare cooperation

The partnership between Niger and China has yielded remarkable results, including:

• Improved patient care: Thousands of Nigeriens have received high-quality treatment through collaborative medical programs.
• Skills development: Over 45,000 local healthcare workers have been trained and mentored by Chinese medical professionals.
• Technology transfer: New medical techniques and innovations have been introduced, modernizing Niger’s healthcare system.
• Broad impact: More than 2.3 million people across Niger have benefited from free medical services provided by Chinese teams.

chinese ambassador highlights long-term friendship

Ambassador Lyu Guinjun of the People’s Republic of China emphasized the deep historical ties between the two nations. Since 1976, the Guangxi Autonomous Region has dispatched nearly 800 skilled doctors and nurses to Niger, working alongside local teams to treat patients and promote health diplomacy.

The ambassador also referenced China’s global health vision, championed by President Xi Jinping, which has gained international recognition. China’s recently adopted 15th Five-Year Plan further strengthens health cooperation, offering new avenues for collaboration between Niger and China in the years ahead.

local voices praise enduring impact

Mr. Du Zhenzong, head of the Guangxi Health Commission delegation, described the Chinese medical teams as more than healthcare providers—they are ambassadors of friendship. Their work has fostered strong bonds with Nigerien communities while building a lasting legacy in the country’s healthcare development.

Mr. Daou Mamane, Director-General of Niamey General Reference Hospital, echoed these sentiments. He praised the Chinese teams for their five-decade commitment and thanked the Chinese government for the recent donation, which will bolster the hospital’s ability to serve patients nationwide.

celebrating the future of sino-nigerian health cooperation

The event concluded with symbolic gift exchanges between the two governments and the signing of a new partnership agreement. Minister Hakimi expressed optimism that future collaborations will yield even greater health benefits for Niger’s population, reinforcing the enduring friendship between Niger and China.