A six-month medical training program has officially begun at Wilberforce Barracks, where the 8th Chinese Military Medical Expert Group is delivering continuous medical education to members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Defence Medical Services (DMS).
The 24-week program, launched as part of a bilateral cooperation initiative between Sierra Leone and China, is designed to enhance the medical capabilities of the military and support the broader national healthcare system. The training, developed by leading Chinese infectious disease expert Professor Fu-Sheng Wang, addresses major public health challenges such as Mpox, HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and cholera.
More than 2,000 participants are expected to benefit from a combination of in-person sessions and online lectures delivered by top Chinese medical professionals.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brigadier General S.D.T. Ngaujah, Chief of General Staff, lauded the long-standing partnership between the two countries, describing it as a “testament to resilience, gratitude, and unwavering support.” Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, Ngaujah praised China’s significant contributions during the Ebola crisis and ongoing efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s military healthcare system.
“China has become an integral pillar in fortifying the MoD/RSLAF healthcare system,” he said, citing the establishment of key facilities such as the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Centre and the advanced P2+ Laboratory. “These are not just buildings; they are symbols of what our two nations can achieve together.”
The Chinese Defence Attaché to Sierra Leone, Senior Colonel Pu Lin, commended the leadership of Major General A.I. Bangura for his dedication to the RSLAF’s development. He highlighted the importance of building strong medical systems for effective military operations and reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening military collaboration.
“This training programme is tailored to empower medical personnel to better serve both the armed forces and the people of Sierra Leone,” said Senior Colonel Pu Lin. “Let’s work together, support each other, and create a brighter future.”
As part of the event, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) donated essential medical supplies, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and textbooks on infectious disease management, underscoring the practical support accompanying the training initiative.
This latest deployment marks the eighth Chinese Military Medical Expert Group to be stationed in Sierra Leone, further reinforcing the enduring relationship between the two nations.
