Announcements

By Fanta S Jalloh
Chinese company, Leone Afric, past Friday 28th February, 2025 inaugurated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Sierra Leone, marking a new chapter in the country’s healthcare landscape.
The initiative integrates various traditional therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments, aimed at restoring balance and enhancing overall well-being.
The launch ceremony at Bintumani Hotel in Freetown was attended by key dignitaries, including Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Health 1, Dr Charles Senessie, and Ministerial Consular of the Chinese Embassy, Mr Zhang Dianbin.
The event also marked the conclusion of the Traditional Chinese Medicine and Community Health Investigation Project, which has provided thousands of Sierra Leoneans with free medical treatments over the past three months.
The 25th Batch of the China Medical Team, which has been offering free clinics across the country, played a pivotal role in the success of the project. The team provided acupuncture and physiotherapy services to thousands of residents in five communities—Lumpa, Old School, Rogbangba, Mambo, and Tombo. The initiative recorded 12,900 treatments and utilized over 250,000 acupuncture needles to address common ailments such as hypertension and chronic pain.
Deputy Minister of Health 1, Dr Charles Senessie, praised China’s continued commitment to Sierra Leone’s healthcare system. “China has stood by us during crises, natural disasters, and outbreaks. This initiative further strengthens our vision of providing accessible healthcare services to all,” he stated.
The project also conducted a clinical ethics review and an international clinical trial registration, enrolling approximately 320 participants in a study to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture for hypertension and chronic pain management. The findings from this research are expected to shape future healthcare interventions in the country.
In his keynote speech, Ministerial Consular Zhang Dianbin emphasized the long-standing partnership between Sierra Leone and China in the healthcare sector. He noted that for over 50 years, the two nations have collaborated in combating diseases, improving healthcare infrastructure, and enhancing medical training.
“For three months, Dr You Xiong and his team worked closely with the Ministry of Health, community leaders, and healthcare workers, treating around 12,000 patients. Their hard work reflects not only their dedication but also the trust and acceptance of Traditional Chinese Medicine by the local communities,” Dianbin said.
He further announced the official inauguration of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Center at Jui Hospital, which will be staffed by three new TCM doctors arriving with the 26th batch of the China Medical Team. This center aims to provide continuous TCM services and training for local medical practitioners.
The government of Sierra Leone has welcomed the expansion of Traditional Chinese Medicine, recognizing its potential to complement Western medical practices. The Ministry of Health has established a special unit under the Directorate of Primary Health Care to oversee traditional and complementary medicine.
Dr Senessie emphasized the importance of evidence-based traditional medicine in healthcare delivery. “We believe in integrating traditional and complementary medicine with modern healthcare. This initiative aligns with our goal of ensuring that every Sierra Leonean has access to quality healthcare services,” he said.
The initiative has also received strong support from community leaders. Representatives from Lumpa Community in Waterloo expressed their gratitude to the 25th batch of the China Medical Team for providing free TCM treatments, which have significantly benefited the local population.
China’s involvement in Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector extends beyond TCM. Over the years, the country has provided assistance in combating Ebola, COVID-19, and other health crises. Future projects include the development of telemedicine, specialized hospital departments, and mobile clinics to reach rural areas.
As Sierra Leone continues to explore new healthcare solutions, the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine presents an opportunity to enhance treatment options, improve community health, and strengthen international partnerships.
The newly inaugurated TCM Center at Jui Hospital stands as a symbol of this growing collaboration, offering a blend of ancient healing techniques and modern medical advancements for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.