To strengthen bilateral cooperation in healthcare and military medical services, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) – Defence Medical Services (DMS), in partnership with the 8th Chinese Military Medical Expert Group (CMMEG), officially launched a 24-week Continuous Medical Education Training Programme on Tuesday, 13 May 2025. The opening ceremony took place at the Myohaung Officers’ Mess, Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown.
The initiative, born from a request by the RSLAF Chain of Command, is part of a broader vision to prioritize capacity building and enhance the delivery of medical services within the military and the wider public. Under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major General A.I. Bangura, the partnership aims to elevate healthcare delivery at the 34 Military Hospital and strengthen ties with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China.
Representing the CDS at the event, the Chief of General Staff, Brigadier General S.D.T. Ngaujah, praised the enduring bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and China. “This partnership, which spans over five decades, is a testament to resilience, gratitude and unwavering support,” he remarked. He recalled China’s vital contributions during the Ebola outbreak, where swift deployment of personnel and logistics helped protect frontline workers.
He emphasized that China’s involvement has gone far beyond emergency response. “China has become an integral pillar in fortifying the MoD/RSLAF healthcare system. Their experts have worked hand in hand with our medical personnel across multiple sectors, while strategic defense collaboration has further strengthened the relationship between both militaries,” Brigadier General S.D.T. Ngaujah stated.
Highlighting notable achievements, he pointed to the establishment of the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Centre (IDPC) and the P2+ Laboratory; state-of-the-art facilities that have significantly contributed to Sierra Leone’s capacity to manage diseases such as COVID-19, Marburg virus and Mpox. “These are not just buildings,” he said, “they are symbols of what our two nations can achieve together.”
To date, the PLA has deployed eight batches of Chinese Military Medical Expert Groups to Sierra Leone, contributing immensely to national health security through their expertise, mentorship and donations. “Their support has saved lives, strengthened our institutions and fortified our future,” he added.
Delivering his statement, the Chinese Defence Attaché to Sierra Leone, Senior Colonel Pu Lin, praised the leadership of Major General A.I. Bangura, noting his commitment to the welfare and development of the RSLAF. “I am sincerely happy that RSLAF has such an excellent leadership,” he said, emphasizing the importance of strong medical systems for effective military operations.
Senior Colonel Pu Lin stated that the training programme was specially designed to improve the skills of medical personnel, enabling them to better serve the RSLAF and the people of Sierra Leone. He reaffirmed China’s dedication to deepening military ties through continued cooperation and support. “Let’s work together, support each other and create a brighter future,” he concluded.
The training programme, developed by Professor Fu-Sheng Wang, a renowned Chinese expert in infectious diseases, covers a wide range of medical challenges, including Mpox, HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis and cholera. The course will combine in-person instruction with online lectures from top Chinese professors and medical experts.
A total of 2,000 participants are expected to benefit from the training, which will span six months. As part of the opening ceremony, the Chinese PLA donated a range of essential medical supplies, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and specialized textbooks on infectious disease management. The donation was presented by Dr. Lei Shi on behalf of the PLA.
The ceremony featured statements from key stakeholders, and reinforced the deepening friendship between Sierra Leone and China anchored in mutual respect, shared goals and a commitment to enhancing global health security through joint military cooperation.