The South Sudanese government and the Chinese Embassy in Juba held a ceremony honoring the departing 12th batch of the Chinese medical team while welcoming the newly arrived 13th batch. Certificates of recognition were awarded to the outgoing team for their service to local communities across the country.
Health Minister Sarah Cleto Rial praised the departing medical group for their professionalism and compassion, citing their role in treating tens of thousands of patients, performing complex surgeries, and introducing new medical technologies and protocols. “Your dedication, professionalism, and compassion have left a lasting impact on our people,” Cleto said.
“To the members of the 13th batch of the Chinese medical team, we warmly welcome you to South Sudan. We trust that you will build on the legacy of your predecessors,” Cleto said, expressing confidence that the incoming team would build on the legacy laid by their predecessors.
Officials from both sides highlighted the broader impact of the Chinese medical teams: beyond patient care, the 12th batch trained local health staff and set up a modern laboratory at Juba Teaching Hospital, one that meets national public health laboratory standards and conducted outreach programs in underserved regions
Du Changyong, leader of the outgoing 12th batch, reported that over their mission they had treated more than 15,000 outpatients and 2,300 inpatients, performed 192 surgeries, and saved 170 critically ill patients. The team additionally carried out 268 academic lectures and strengthened cooperation with South Sudanese institutions.
The 13th batch, led by Zhang Erqing, comprises 16 medical professionals who join the effort to deliver healthcare services spanning general medicine, surgery, and other specialties. They will also continue outreach into rural communities and orphanages, extending free check-ups and diagnostic services.
