By Cremilda Macuácua, China Africa News
LUSAKA, June 4, 2026 — The 26th Chinese Medical Team to Zambia has donated medical supplies and provided free healthcare services to refugees in Lusaka as part of activities marking the lead-up to World Refugee Day, according to Xinhua News Agency.
The outreach programme was conducted at the Makeni Refugee Transit Center in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The initiative sought to address immediate healthcare needs among refugees and vulnerable host communities while promoting humanitarian cooperation.
The Chinese medical team donated a range of medical supplies, including 2,000 medical masks, 400 pairs of medical gloves, a digital thermometer, hygiene materials, and dozens of bottles of antibacterial hand sanitizer. The supplies are expected to strengthen healthcare services at the transit center, which continues to face resource constraints.
Medical specialists from the team also offered free consultations and treatment services in obstetrics and gynecology, internal medicine, surgery, pain management, and traditional Chinese medicine. The healthcare outreach aimed to provide comprehensive medical support to refugees residing at the facility.
Xinhua News Agency reported that Zhang Yingjian, leader of the 26th Chinese Medical Team to Zambia, described the initiative as part of the team’s commitment to supporting refugee communities and improving access to healthcare. He noted that health remains a fundamental pillar for individual well-being and community development.
The outreach programme received praise from UNHCR Zambia officials, who commended the Chinese government and the medical team for their humanitarian support and professional medical services. UNHCR representatives noted that the donated supplies would continue benefiting refugees beyond the duration of the exercise.
Officials from Zambia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security also welcomed the initiative, describing it as a practical demonstration of solidarity in addressing growing healthcare needs among refugees and host communities.
As World Refugee Day approaches on June 20, the initiative underscores ongoing cooperation between China and Zambia in the health sector. According to Xinhua News Agency, members of the Chinese medical team reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening China–Zambia friendship through humanitarian and healthcare partnerships that support vulnerable populations.
