Chinese Medical Team Brings Free Healthcare to Uganda’s Kikuube…

A Chinese medical team offers free healthcare services in Uganda.
The initiative targets underserved residents in Kikuube district.
More than 1,000 people are expected to receive medical care.
Local and Chinese medical professionals collaborate in the outreach.
The project reflects long-term commitment to local health by CNOOC.

Chinese Medical Team Offers Free Care in Uganda’s Kikuube District

Against the backdrop of Uganda’s picturesque Rift Valley escarpment, a Chinese medical team brings relief to the underserved residents of Kikuube. On June 27, 2025, as the sun rose, locals like 45-year-old Jennifer Nyangoma made their way to a much-anticipated free medical camp. This outreach, which had been widely communicated in the villages, was organized by the 24th Chinese medical team from Kampala, a team that traveled over 300 kilometers to offer services in this remote area. Alongside the Chinese specialists—comprising cardiologists, pediatricians, general surgeons, and acupuncture experts—over 20 Ugandan medical professionals joined in, lending their support during this vital initiative.

Community Response to Healthcare Outreach Camp

As the camp commenced at Buhuka Health Center III, which caters to a population exceeding 10,000, villagers arrived early, with many expressing hope for healthcare that had previously been out of reach. Despite an array of health issues, Nyangoma was among the first patients attended, seeking relief from persistent joint and back pain. After a thorough examination, doctors recommended acupuncture, a Chinese technique that intrigued her. Similarly, Evelyn Atuhura, 30, was grateful for the chance to get her children treated, stating, “The Chinese have given us treatment, and I really thank them.” Overall, by midday, hundreds of people gathered in the waiting area, seeking care at this unprecedented health event.

Commitment to Sustainable Health Initiatives

Li Yun, who leads the Chinese medical team, commented that they hope to serve around 1,000 individuals during the camp’s run. Additionally, he emphasized that mutual learning was taking place, as they observed the dedication of local health workers operating under challenging conditions. With the annual initiative being organized by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), Hu Weijie, CNOOC Uganda Limited’s acting president, expressed the company’s commitment to local health and well-being. “Health is not only a basic human right,” he highlighted. Such undertakings are more than temporary relief; they signify a larger goal of creating lasting support for the healthcare needs of communities across Uganda.

Strengthening Healthcare Through Collaboration

The importance of public health cooperation was further emphasized by Fan Xuecheng, a minister counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Uganda. He reflected on China’s pledge made at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit to enhance healthcare across the continent through joint efforts. “We are committed to building more hospitals in Africa and sending additional medical teams, enhancing disease control, and improving access to essential medicines,” Fan remarked. The enduring collaboration since 1983 has seen Chinese medical teams providing vital services in both urban and rural settings in Uganda, fostering relationships that uplift health standards and community resilience.

In a significant healthcare outreach initiative, a Chinese medical team has arrived in Kikuube, Uganda, offering free medical services to underserved communities. Hundreds of locals, including children and families, have benefited from critical consultations and treatments. This endeavor is part of broader efforts by China to reinforce healthcare partnerships in Africa, promoting well-being and sustainable development in the region.