In celebration of the 2026 China–Africa People-to-People Exchange Year, the 23rd Chinese (Hunan) Medical Team to Zimbabwe, in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, participated in the Midlands State University International Cultural Diversity Carnival held at the Gweru Main Campus on 13 May 2026.
Under the theme “Embracing Cultural Diversity for Sustainable Innovation,” the event provided a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, friendship, and international health cooperation between China and Zimbabwe.
The opening ceremony featured a keynote address from Team Leader Ma Zheng, who expressed gratitude to the university for its warm invitation and hospitality. He highlighted the longstanding achievements of China–Zimbabwe health cooperation and emphasised the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in global healthcare systems.
Ma reaffirmed the medical team’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people relations through cultural exchange and medical collaboration, drawing enthusiastic applause from students, faculty, and guests in attendance.
At a joint exhibition booth hosted with the Confucius Institute, the Chinese medical team offered a range of free health services that attracted strong interest from both the university community and local residents.
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Medical experts Peng Jie, Li Xuanjing and Xue Lixia provided traditional treatments including acupuncture, tuina massage and moxibustion, giving participants firsthand experience of the therapeutic and cultural value of TCM.
Meanwhile, Hou Can and Liao Shiyu conducted free blood pressure screenings and offered professional health consultations, promoting awareness of preventive healthcare and healthy living. Surgical specialists Chen Yanliang, Yang Zhao and Cao Wang also provided consultations and diagnostic services, demonstrating the team’s technical expertise and commitment to service delivery.
The carnival further highlighted growing cultural and educational ties between China and Zimbabwe. During the event, members of the medical team participated in interviews with local radio stations, sharing insights into Chinese medical traditions and the importance of international health cooperation.
The Provincial Education Director also visited the TCM exhibition booth, where he experienced traditional therapies and commended the team’s professionalism, compassion and spirit of service.
The engagement formed part of the “Medical Service + Cultural Communication” model promoted under the 2026 China–Africa People-to-People Exchange Year. Through collaboration with the Confucius Institute, the 23rd Chinese (Hunan) Medical Team showcased the heritage and healing philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine while strengthening mutual understanding and cultural appreciation between the peoples of China and Zimbabwe.
As cooperation continues, the 23rd Chinese (Hunan) Medical Team to Zimbabwe says it remains committed to the spirit of “Fearless hardship, dedication, healing the wounded and rescuing the dying, and boundless love.”
The team will continue contributing to local healthcare services, promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine, and strengthening the enduring friendship between China and Zimbabwe.
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