The 26th batch of the Chinese medical team to Sierra Leone has hosted a vibrant exchange event in Freetown to commemorate World Traditional Medicine Day, underscoring the growing collaboration between the two countries in the health sector.
The event showcased centuries-old healing practices and celebrated the deepening cultural and medical partnership between China and Sierra Leone. Organizers described it as a milestone in promoting mutual learning and advancing traditional healthcare knowledge.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), practiced for more than 2,000 years, is a holistic system that aims to restore balance within the body using natural therapies such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping, and therapeutic massage. It emphasizes prevention and focuses on addressing the root causes of illness rather than just the symptoms.
The Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guo Jianjun, stressed the importance of integrating TCM into Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.
“Chinese medicine aims to reduce the cause of the disease, not just the symptoms,” Guo explained. “It’s not only about curing the pain, but about restoring balance and harmony within the body.”
Earlier this year, Sierra Leone launched its first Traditional Chinese Medicine Appropriate Technology Training Program, a major step toward expanding the nation’s healthcare landscape and strengthening bilateral health cooperation.
According to Guo, introducing TCM to students and the wider public will help enhance Sierra Leone’s fragile health system by offering valuable alternative and complementary treatment options.
“I know that many locals are not familiar with traditional Chinese medicine or even some local herbs,” he said. “So, we launched this activity to demonstrate both TCM and local herbal practices, to share knowledge with the public and promote better healthcare.”
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