A tropical island paradise lying 500 kilometres off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde is the most western-point of the African continent.
The former Portuguese colony has a population of half a million. But only an estimated one doctor for every 3,000 people.
For over 30 years Chinese doctors have brought much-needed medical support to the archipelago.
A special partnership between China and Cape Verde has seen Chinese doctors offer services in the African island nation since 1984.
Teams of Chinese doctors have been arriving in the country to serve in the health sector, where they stay for two years.
Today, with the 17th mission taking up residency, it’s not unusual to see Chinese and Cape Verdean doctors sitting side-by-side at the Aghostino Neto Hospital – is the biggest and busiest health-care facility in Cape Verde ,discussing patients and treatment plans, performing surgeries and consulting on a range of procedures.
One of the most significant outcomes of the healthcare-cooperation has been Chinese investment in maternity and paediatrics.
Though language and cultural differences have presented some challenges, the doctors have integrated well, and the patients appreciate the level of care they provide.
