Half a century of health cooperation: celebrating Chinese medical teams in Niger

On March 25, 2026, the Hôpital Général de Référence in Niamey hosted a landmark ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Chinese medical missions in Niger. The event was presided over by the Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, Doctor Colonel-Major Garba Hakimi, marking five decades of continuous support, expertise, and dedication from China to the Nigerien people.

A legacy of professionalism and medical support

During the ceremony, Doctor Colonel-Major Garba Hakimi lauded the exceptional discipline and professional commitment demonstrated by the Chinese medical personnel. Their integration into Niger‘s healthcare facilities has significantly enhanced local medical capacity and expanded access to essential treatments. As part of the celebration, the China government provided a substantial donation of medicines and medical consumables to the hospital, valued at approximately 99,244,000 francs.

The Minister emphasized that the enduring presence of these medical missions is a testament to the shared resolve of both nations to improve public health and solidify their bonds of solidarity. This cooperation has been instrumental in various sectors, including direct patient care, the training of local health workers, and the transfer of advanced medical technologies. Minister Garba Hakimi identified China as a key strategic partner that has consistently prioritized Niger‘s health development needs.

Five decades of impact and friendship

The Chinese Ambassador to Niger, H.E. Lyu Guinjun, reflected on the history of this partnership, noting that nearly 800 highly skilled doctors and nurses from the Guangxi Autonomous Region have been deployed to Niger over the last 50 years. Often referred to as “ambassadors in white coats,” these professionals have treated an estimated 1.8 million patients. The Ambassador also noted that China‘s recently adopted 15th Five-Year Plan will pave the way for even deeper health coordination between the two countries, following the global health vision promoted by President Xi Jinping.

Training and system development

Du Zhenzong, leading the delegation from the Guangxi Health Commission, highlighted that the Chinese teams serve as vital links in Sino-African friendship. Beyond treating over 2.3 million individuals throughout the history of the cooperation, these missions have mentored and trained more than 45,000 Nigerien health professionals. This long-term engagement has left a permanent mark on the country’s medical infrastructure and the overall well-being of its citizens.

The Director General of the Hôpital Général de Référence, Daou Mamane, expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support, stating that the donation of medical supplies is a major boost for the hospital and the wider national health network. He pledged that all resources would be utilized transparently and according to established medical protocols to serve the population effectively.

The anniversary concluded with the signing of a new partnership agreement and a symbolic exchange of gifts, reaffirming the commitment of Niger and China to continue their fruitful collaboration in the years to come.