Shanxi's medical aid brings TCM to Africa
Updated: 2025-09-12
For years, Shanxi province has been a leader in providing international medical aid, using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques such as acupuncture, cupping, and massage to serve communities in partner countries. This initiative has introduced more people to the cultural richness of TCM, significantly contributing to its global reach and influence.
Last year, Shanxi facilitated a partnership between Shanxi Acupuncture Hospital and Peltier Hospital in Djibouti to establish a "TCM Center". In February, the Djibouti Ministry of Health granted approval for the import and use of TCM products. The TCM Center aims to train local medical professionals and enhance the healthcare standards in Djibouti.
In Cameroon, members of the 24th Chinese (Shanxi) medical team in Mbalmayo, including Doctor Guo Wei, deputy chief physician of acupuncture and massage at Taiyuan Hospital of Peking University First Hospital, frequently teach local doctors cupping and acupuncture techniques. From selecting the right cups to mastering the subtlety of needle insertion, local practitioners are gaining firsthand experience in the art of TCM.
To date, Shanxi has provided specialized TCM training to over 3,500 medical and management personnel from 128 developing countries over 27 consecutive years. Li Xiao, director of the international exchange and cooperation division at the Health Commission of Shanxi Province, said, "Teaching a man to fish is better than giving him a fish." The medical teams have successfully trained over 10 local doctors to independently practice TCM treatment.
Additionally, the teams actively promote TCM culture by conducting lectures, workshops, and wellness programs in universities and communities, further spreading the wisdom of TCM.