By Mary Kabay

Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, has on September 10, 2025 officially inaugurated the On-site First Aid Training Center at the China Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital in Jui. The landmark event, held in commemoration of World Heart Day, also featured a free health clinic and a public awareness campaign focused on cardiovascular health and community preparedness.

The ceremony drew distinguished officials from both nations. Representing the Ministry of Health were Andrew L. Sorie, Permanent Secretary; Dr. Sartie Kenneh, Chief Medical Officer and Dr. Augustine Tarawally, Medical Superintendent of Jui Hospital. On the Chinese side, participants included H.E.Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone; Chang Shi, Deputy Commissioner of the Hunan Health Commission; Dr. Liu Long Fei, Captain of the 26th Chinese Medical Team; alongside senior officials from the Chinese Embassy in Freetown.

The event opened with a welcome address from Dr. Liu Long Fei, followed by remarks from Andrew L. Sorie, Ambassador Wang Qing, and Chang Shi. Each speaker highlighted the deepening friendship and cooperation between Sierra Leone and China particularly in the field of healthcare.

Key moments of the ceremony included:

- Unveiling of a commemorative plaque marking the opening of the center.


- Donation of vital medical supplies and equipment to strengthen healthcare delivery.


- Live demonstrations by trainees, showcasing newly acquired first aid skills.


- Awarding of certificates to participants who successfully completed the training.

Ambassador Wang Qing described the launch as “a manifestation of the deep friendship between our two peoples,” reaffirming China’s commitment to Sierra Leone’s health sector. Permanent Secretary Andrew L. Sorie emphasized that the new facility will “equip Sierra Leoneans with lifesaving skills and reduce reliance on overseas treatment.”

The First Aid Training Center is the latest milestone in a series of joint healthcare initiatives. Earlier this year, Sierra Leone and China established the Traditional Chinese Medicine Center and a Telemedicine Center, both designed to expand medical expertise and access. Officials also revealed plans to upgrade the China–Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital into a Center of Excellence, equipped to handle complex and critical medical cases.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Augustine Tarawally expressed gratitude for the continuous support of the Chinese Medical Teams during his tenure as Medical Superintendent, praising their role in strengthening the hospital’s capacity.

Beyond the launch of a new facility, officials underscored the symbolic value of the initiative. The center represents a strategic health partnership that has endured through Ebola, COVID-19 and other health crises and it reaffirms both countries’ commitment to building a healthier, more resilient future.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks and a group photo session, capturing a moment of renewed solidarity between Sierra Leone and China. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/china-sierra-leone-inaugurate-on-site-first-aid-training-center-on-world-heart-day/