China builds on 60-year record to strengthen medical ties with Africa
- Beijing’s support for African countries has expanded beyond sending thousands of healthcare workers to vital infrastructure
- China-Africa health cooperation has also included funding for medicines and treatments as well as disease prevention
The building includes administration offices, an emergency operation centre, a biological laboratory, resource centre, conference halls and offices – all built, furnished and equipped by the Chinese government as a gift for the continent.
The gift is part of China’s plan to strengthen its medical diplomacy with African countries as it positions itself as a major player in the international global health market.
Beijing is continuing to send hundreds of medical workers to African countries each year and has also devoted financial resources to the fight against infectious diseases. China has also built other healthcare infrastructure on the continent, in addition to its funding of the Africa CDC.
Observers say China aims to challenge US dominance in global healthcare, including in Africa where Washington has funded multibillion-dollar projects on malaria and HIV-Aids.