Marius Musa Kargbo, AYV News, July 20, 2026
More than 40 nurses from the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital have completed a specialised Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) training programme introduced by the 27th Chinese Medical Team to Sierra Leone, aimed at strengthening local capacity in pain management and clinical care.
The training, held at the hospital’s Telemedicine Center, marked the launch of a hybrid learning model that combines live virtual lectures from medical experts in Hunan Province, China, with practical clinical demonstrations conducted by Chinese doctors in Freetown. The initiative is being implemented through the China-Sierra Leone Nursing Training Center to expand knowledge of standardised TCM practices among Sierra Leonean healthcare professionals.
The programme featured a structured approach covering theoretical instruction, simulation exercises, interactive question-and-answer sessions, and live clinical rounds. Professor Guo Liwen delivered virtual lectures on the history and principles of acupuncture, while Dr. Zhou Shengqiang led on-site sessions focusing on the application of modern acupuncture techniques for treating musculoskeletal pain.
During the practical demonstrations, participants observed the treatment of an 18-year-old university student suffering from chronic knee pain. Following Fu Needle therapy administered by Dr. Zhou, the patient reportedly experienced immediate pain relief and improved mobility, providing trainees with a real-time clinical learning experience.
Additional hands-on sessions covered Gua Sha(scraping), moving cupping, massage, moxibustion, and other traditional therapeutic techniques. Trainers also emphasized patient safety, correct application methods, and contraindications to ensure safe clinical practice.
Participants welcomed the programme, describing it as a practical response to the growing need for improved pain management services in Sierra Leone. State Registered Nurse Zainab Bangura said the course provides structured knowledge that directly addresses everyday clinical challenges faced by local healthcare workers.
The Chinese Medical Team says it will continue organizing regular bilingual TCM workshops through the Telemedicine Center, with the long-term goal of building sustainable local expertise and expanding standardized Traditional Chinese Medicine nursing practices across Sierra Leone and the wider West African region.
