On January 2, 2025, an impressive international collaboration took place at Tirunesh Beijing Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Local and Chinese doctors teamed up to perform cataract surgeries, showcasing a remarkable partnership between the two nations. (Photo Credit: Tianjin Eye Hospital/Handout via Xinhua)
This initiative, dubbed “China-Ethiopia Brightness Journey,” marks a significant step in medical diplomacy. It was officially set in motion by a dedicated team from Tianjin Eye Hospital, which launched a campaign to offer completely free cataract surgeries at Tirunesh Beijing Hospital in Ethiopia’s capital city.
Headlined by a squad of 10 seasoned ophthalmologists and nurses, the Chinese team aims to restore vision for over 500 patients. As of the latest update, they’ve successfully completed operations on 80 individuals. This effort highlights the immense potential of collaborative healthcare.
Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, at the project’s inauguration, expressed the importance of this gesture. He noted that the Chinese government is committed to supporting Ethiopian patients through cutting-edge medical technology and expertise. “The ‘Brightness Journey’ perfectly exemplifies our enduring strategic alliance and timeless friendship. It shall profoundly transform the lives of hundreds of Ethiopian cataract sufferers,” Chen articulated.
The partnership extends beyond surgery. The Chinese team has generously donated advanced medical equipment to the hospital, reinforcing the China-Ethiopia Friendship Hospital’s mission. Here, professionals from both countries work side by side, exchanging vital knowledge and experience.
Sharing her perspective, Ethiopian Minister of Health Mekdes Daba emphasized the extensive impact of the China-Ethiopia Brightness Journey. “By addressing visual impairments, we’re not only helping individuals but also tackling larger community needs. The Ethiopian government acknowledges this campaign’s alignment with our national health priorities, which emphasizes the growth of partnerships and common visions,” Daba remarked.
The Chinese medical contingent is led by Zhang Wei, President of Tianjin Eye Hospital. He reflected on the deeper implications of the campaign by noting, “Our mission goes beyond medical procedures. It’s another testament to the ever-growing bond between our nations.” Zhang’s vision for the initiative is inspiring, hoping it renews optimism and fertility in the flourishing China-Ethiopia friendship.
The “Brightness Journey” is well on its way to impacting over 500 cataract-afflicted lives positively. Since operations began last week, they have successfully restored vision to 80 people, including Mohammod Hassen.
Mohammod, a 65-year-old who had struggled with poor vision for a decade, echoed his gratitude in an interview with Xinhua. After getting surgery on his left eye, he shared, “When the bandage came off, it was like being reborn. Your sight is something you rarely appreciate until it’s gone.” His words resonate with countless others who are experiencing newfound clarity in their lives.
Data from the Ethiopian Ministry of Health reveal the scope of the challenge: over 5.4 million Ethiopians suffer from various eye disorders, with cataract blindness affecting half of them. Such partnerships hold immense potential to significantly reduce these numbers and change lives.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
