Chinese medical team launches first TCM skills training in Tanzania's Zanzibar

DAR ES SALAAM, June 23 (Xinhua) -- The 35th Chinese medical team in Tanzania's Zanzibar on Tuesday launched the first specialized local training course on acupuncture and cupping therapy, in collaboration with the Zanzibar Ministry of Health.

The one-week program, held at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, brought together 20 healthcare workers, according to Bao Zengtao, leader of the medical team.

It is the first time the Chinese medical team has organized a focused skills training program of this kind in Zanzibar, Bao said, adding that the course emphasizes practical and standardized training, combining basic theories of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with hands-on instruction in acupuncture and cupping techniques.

Hidaya Juma Hamad, chief pharmacist at the Zanzibar Ministry of Health, said the initiative would enhance local capacity and expand treatment options for patients, urging participants to fully engage in the program and apply the knowledge to strengthen healthcare services.

Bao also noted that Chinese medical teams have been serving in Zanzibar since 1964, with TCM gaining increasing acceptance among local communities.