In a significant boost to Zimbabwe’s healthcare system, a team of 12 Chinese doctors from Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital has arrived in Harare to provide free cataract surgeries for 600 patients. 

This life-changing initiative, part of the China-aided “Bright Journey” program, not only restores vision but also strengthens medical collaboration between Zimbabwe and China.

The surgeries, scheduled from February 23 to March 1, mark a milestone in the 45-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations and four decades of medical cooperation. Hong Xiuqin, the team leader, emphasized that the program is about more than just medical aid—it is about building stronger healthcare ties and training local doctors.

“The incidence of cataracts in Zimbabwe is high, and we are concerned about the health of the Zimbabwean people,” Hong said. 

Screening for eligible patients began on February 12 and continues as Zimbabwean and Chinese doctors work side by side to identify those in need. This partnership goes beyond immediate medical relief—it includes on-site training, knowledge-sharing, and academic exchanges to enhance Zimbabwe’s ophthalmology services.

Boniface Macheka, head of ophthalmology at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, praised the collaboration. “There is a historical basis to the relationship between our country and China. I believe this relationship is going to be further solidified by this program,” he told Xinhua.

“We hope to be able to increase the diversity of the surgeries that we do at this hospital so that we’ll be able to serve our people better and to make the services more available,” he added. 

Among the many hopeful patients is 67-year-old Amos Chakaza from Manicaland Province, who traveled over 170 km for screening. “I have a lot of responsibilities, and my poor eyesight affects my work. I can’t wait to see clearly again,” he said.

Beyond cataract surgeries, Hunan has played a key role in Zimbabwe’s maternal and child health programs, schistosomiasis prevention, and traditional Chinese medicine training. This ongoing support demonstrates China’s long-term commitment to enhancing Zimbabwe’s healthcare sector and fostering stronger medical partnerships.

As the Bright Journey program progresses, it stands as a symbol of hope, cooperation, and shared medical progress, ensuring that hundreds of Zimbabweans regain not just their sight but also a brighter future.