China Medical Team in Solomon Islands

04/01/2026

29/12/2025

Collaboration Advances the Construction of the China–Solomon Islands Minimally Invasive Urology Surgery Center

From 17 to 23 December 2025, under the framework of the China–Solomon Islands Minimally Invasive Urology Surgery Center Project, the 4th China Medical Team, together with delegation from the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, worked closely with Solomon Islands counterparts. Activities focused on academic exchange, surgical demonstrations, ward rounds for complex cases, laboratory capacity building, and community outreach clinics, comprehensively advancing China–Solomon Islands medical cooperation.
George Wilson Malefoasi, Chief Executive Officer of the National Referral Hospital (NRH) of Solomon Islands, affirmed China’s contributions to enhancing local medical capacity. Chinese experts delivered systematic lectures covering urology, nursing, anesthesia, laboratory medicine, emergency medicine, blood transfusion services, and nephrology. Topics including standards for minimally invasive surgery, perioperative management, transfusion practices and laboratory quality control, optimization of emergency workflows, and dialysis techniques, were warmly received by local healthcare workers.
Zhao Xueke, head of the 4th China Medical Team, noted that the project has achieved phased results in technology introduction, team collaboration, and discipline development, and would continue to promote cooperation toward a more systematic and sustainable model.
In clinical guidance, experts from the blood transfusion and laboratory departments worked within relevant NRH units to guide the application of component transfusion, strengthen laboratory quality management, and assist with equipment installation and commissioning. Emergency medicine experts exchanged experiences on the management of critically ill patients and conducted bedside teaching. The urology team carried out preoperative ward rounds, live surgical demonstrations, and postoperative rounds for representative cases, jointly completing minimally invasive procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and ureteroscopic holmium laser lithotripsy with double-J stent placement. Anesthesiology experts demonstrated spinal and general anesthesia techniques and donated a video laryngoscope to NRH. Operating room nursing experts provided guidance on infusion management and standardized instrument use and participated in intraoperative cooperation. Postoperative rounds emphasized recovery monitoring, complication identification, tube management, and follow-up, with patients recovering well.
In addition, the 4th China medical team and expert delegation conducted community outreach clinics, providing health examinations, consultations, medications, and acupuncture services to residents of Good Shepherd Anglican Church, personnel at Rove Police Headquarters, and staff at the International Airport, Customs and Immigration departments, earning widespread praise.
This intensive exchange and outreach achieved multiple goals, including clinical capacity building, promotion of technical standards, and extension of public health services, laying a solid foundation for the continued development of the China–Solomon Islands Minimally Invasive Urology Surgery Center Project. Zhao Xueke stated that the 4th China medical team would further deepen cooperation between the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University and NRH, expand and enhance the project, inject sustained momentum into China–Solomon Islands health cooperation, and translate collaborative achievements into tangible improvements in safeguarding the health of the local population.

23/12/2025

22/12/2025

14/12/2025

The 4th China Medical Team Conducts Outreach Clinic in Western Province
From December 3rd to 10th, 2025, the 4th China Medical Team traveled to Munda Town in Western Province and carried out a week-long free medical outreach at Helena Goldie Hospital. With superb medical expertise, dedication, and warm, patient-centered services, the team brought health and wellbeing to local residents, earning widespread praise and heartfelt appreciation.
To ensure the outreach benefit as many people in need as possible, the team coordinated in advance with Helena Goldie Hospital, which issued appointment notices to surrounding communities to accurately match patient needs. During the event, the hospital provided full support by preparing a brand new used ward specifically for the outreach. Hospital staff assisted the team in arranging medicines and medical equipment and carefully preparing beds, creating a clean and comfortable environment for diagnosis and treatment and laying a solid foundation for the successful conduct of the event.
Led by Team Leader Zhao Xueke, the outreach team comprised seven members, each contributing their professional strengths — Dr. Wei Bo (Cardiology), Dr. Chen Xulong (Urology), and Dr. Li Danmao (Acupuncture) provided expert diagnosis and treatment; nurse Xiong Guobao ensured smooth clinical workflow; interpreter He Xiaotao facilitated clear communication between doctors and patients; and chef Wu Xujun provided strong logistical support for the team. In addition, Nurse Alden from the National Referral Hospital of Solomon Islands joined the team to serve the local community.
During consultations, the team operated with clear division of responsibilities and efficient coordination. They focused on locally prevalent common and chronic diseases, carefully inquiring about patients’ medical histories, conducting thorough physical examinations, and formulating individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s condition. For patients requiring medication, the team provided free, condition-specific medicines and explained in detail the dosage, usage, and precautions to ensure correct and effective treatment.
Considering the high prevalence of pain-related conditions among local residents, Dr. Li Danmao used precise acupuncture techniques combined with professional manipulation to provide rapid pain relief for many patients. Numerous patients reported immediate improvement. “I’ve suffered from leg pain for a long time, which affected walking and lifting things. After receiving acupuncture last week, the pain eased a lot. Today I came for treatment of my back pain, and now I feel so much better!” said patient Yvonne Sail, smiling broadly as she shared her recovery experience. She also encouraged more people to try acupuncture and expressed sincere gratitude to the China Medical Team.
Throughout the outreach, the staff of Helena Goldie Hospital actively lent their support by assisting with blood pressure and heart rate measurements and organizing patient triage, which significantly improved the efficiency and smoothness of clinical services. On the final day, the medical team donated a batch of essential medicines and medical supplies to Helena Goldie Hospital to support local healthcare development. The hospital leadership expressed genuine gratitude for the team’s selfless assistance and professional services.
Besides, the medical team also visited local communities for on-site assessments to better understand medical resource distribution and health needs, gathering first-hand data to support future targeted assistance.
“This is the third time that the 4th China Medical Team has conducted an outreach clinic to outer islands,” said Team Leader Zhao Xueke. “The health needs of remote communities have always been at the forefront of our minds. This Western Province outreach not only addressed practical health problems for local residents but also served as a bridge connecting the hearts of the peoples of China and Solomon Islands.” Zhao added that the team will continue bringing quality medical services to more people in need, and contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of Solomon Islanders and deepening bilateral cooperation in the medical and health sector.

28/11/2025

The 4th China Medical Team Conducts Outreach Mission in Makira Ulawa Province, Reflecting Benevolence and Professional Dedication
From 17 to 20 November 2025, the 4th China Medical Team successfully completed its second outreach medical mission to the outer islands. This round of services took place in Kirakira, the capital of Makira Ulawa Province, where the team conducted a four-day special medical outreach at Kirakira Hospital. Its professional service and spirit of dedication won wide praise from the local community.
To ensure the smooth implementation of the mission, Kirakira Hospital coordinated arrangements in advance, allocating the ophthalmology and non-communicable disease clinics as dedicated consultation rooms. The hospital also assisted in properly setting up the medicines and medical equipment brought by the team. In consideration of the special requirements for acupuncture treatment, an independent treatment space was arranged in a nearby building to provide patients with a comfortable environment.
A total of seven members participated in the outreach, led by team leader Dr. Zhao Xueke. The team consisted of cardiologist Dr. Wei Bo, nurse Xiong Guobao, nephrologist Dr. Jia Chonggao, acupuncturist Dr. Li Danmao, interpreter He Xiaotao, and team assistant Wu Xujun. Nurse Alden from the National Referral Hospital of Solomon Islands also joined the mission.
With a clear division of responsibilities, the medical team focused on diagnosing and treating common and chronic diseases. They carefully reviewed patients’ medical histories, performed physical examinations, and provided individualized treatment plans based on clinical conditions. For patients requiring medication, the team distributed appropriate medicines free of charge and thoroughly explained dosage, usage, and precautions to ensure proper administration.
Acupuncture emerged as a highlight of this outreach mission. To address the widespread issue of chronic pain among local residents, Dr. Li Danmao worked closely with Nurse Alden, guiding precise needling techniques to relieve patients’ discomfort through traditional Chinese medicine. Many patients reported immediate relief. One patient named Albert Siapu, said emotionally, “After the acupuncture treatment on my knee, the pain eased a lot. When I stand and walk, I feel much more comfortable than before. I am very grateful to the China Medical Team—I’m really satisfied with the treatment.”
Meanwhile, four acupuncture specialists from Guizhou Province have also traveled to Solomon Islands to jointly promote the development of the China–Solomon Islands Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture Center. This cooperation project, initiated and supported by China’s National Health Commission, not only brings high-quality medical services to the local population but also stands as a vivid example of deepening friendship between the two nations and advancing the vision of a global community of health for all.
Throughout the clinic, medical staff from Kirakira Hospital provided strong support, assisting with clinical services and voluntarily helping with translation. Their cooperation helped overcome language barriers and enhanced service efficiency.
At the conclusion of the mission, the medical team donated a batch of essential medicines and medical supplies to Kirakira Hospital. Local authorities expressed heartfelt appreciation for the team’s selfless assistance and highly commended China’s long-term contributions to improving healthcare capacity in Solomon Islands.
Team leader Dr. Zhao Xueke remarked: “As the second outreach mission of the 4th China Medical Team, this activity has not only continued our care for people in remote areas but also further strengthened cooperation and friendship between the two countries in the field of health. Through concrete actions, the team practices the China Medical Team spirit of ‘fearless dedication, willingness to serve, saving lives, and boundless love,’ contributing to the well-being of people in Solomon Islands.”
After the mission ended, the medical team was warmly received by the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government, which also held a farewell ceremony in its honor. Premier Stanley Siapu stated, “This outreach mission by the China Medical Team is a shining example of the deepening relationship between China and Solomon Islands. Your support concretely demonstrates China's commitment to standing alongside Solomon Islands in overcoming challenges and advancing sustainable development goals. Together, we showcase how international friendship can translate into tangible benefits in everyday lives—especially in critical areas like health. This cooperation strengthens not only our health systems but the foundation of partnership between two countries.”
Premier Stanley Siapu presented gifts to the medical team members on behalf of the provincial government and expressed his sincere gratitude for their dedicated service. He then joined the team members for group photos to commemorate the occasion.

28/11/2025

Linked by Acupuncture: Painting a New Picture of Health and Friendship between China and Solomon Islands

Recently, a health delegation from Guizhou Province, China, together with four acupuncture experts, came to Solomon Islands to jointly advance the establishment of the China–Solomon Islands Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture Center. This cooperation project, initiated by China’s National Health Commission, not only brings high-quality medical services to local residents but also serves as a vivid example of deepening China–Solomon Islands friendship and putting into practice the vision of a global community of health for all.
Empowering through Expertise: Building Academic and Clinical Bridges
The four experts from Guizhou have strong professional background—Li Lihong from the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University; Lei Yandong, a member of the first and second China Medical Team to Solomon Islands; Liu Minghui from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; and Lu Xiaoxiao from the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Upon arrival, they quickly launched a series of activities to lay a solid foundation for cooperation.
At the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Solomon Islands, Dr. Li Lihong delivered an academic lecture titled “Acupuncture and Hospital Development: Exploring the Establishment of a TCM Acupuncture Discipline in Solomon Islands,” engaging in in-depth discussions with local counterparts about project implementation. Dr. Liu Minghui lectured on two practical topics—“Acupuncture Treatment of Stroke” and “Application of Balance Acupuncture Therapy in Chronic Pain of the Neck, Shoulders, Waist, and Legs”—which sparked lively interaction and introduced new clinical approaches to local healthcare workers.
The expert team also provided clinical training and case discussions at the acupuncture clinic of the Comprehensive Medical Center. At Kiluufi Hospital in Malaita Province, Lei Yandong and Lu Xiaoxiao worked alongside NRH doctors Elsie and Leanne, providing acupuncture treatments for 166 local patients—over 400 treatment sessions in total—effectively helping many chronic pain sufferers regain comfort and mobility. Throughout the team’s stay, Dr. Li Danmao (acupuncturist of the 4th China medical team ) and translator He Xiaotao provided full support.
Proven Results: Acupuncture Gains Popularity Across the Islands
The remarkable effects of acupuncture have left behind many touching stories. Richard, the head nurse of Kiluufi Hospital in Malaita Province, had suffered from severe pain in his left shoulder for more than a year, which greatly affected his daily life. After hearing about the benefits of acupuncture, he sought treatment and fully recovered after just four treatment sessions. Now he can play basketball and volleyball without pain and expressed his gratitude to the Chinese experts in Chinese. The hospital director presented certificates of appreciation to the experts on behalf of the staff and patients, a reflection of acupuncture’s growing popularity in Solomon Islands.
Since 2022, the China medical teams have provided more than 20,000 acupuncture treatments across all nine provinces of the Solomon Islands, including remote islands. They have also offered lectures, taught courses at the national university, trained local acupuncturists, conducted research projects, and developed diagnostic and treatment standards.
From initial skepticism to widespread recognition, acupuncture—valued as “simple, convenient, effective, and affordable”—has now “spread across the islands.” In May 2023, acupuncture was officially incorporated into Solomon Islands’ Rehabilitation Strategic Plan (2022–2031) and Disability-Inclusive Development Policy (2023–2031), becoming an integral part of the national healthcare system.
Deepening Friendship: A New Blueprint for Medical Cooperation
The establishment of the China–Solomon Islands TCM Acupuncture Center marks a key step in shifting from one-way medical aid to cooperative co-construction. In August 2023, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University and Solomon Islands National Referral Hospital signed a memorandum of understanding to build a sustainable, locally led medical team and fundamentally enhance local acupuncture capabilities.
Elsie Taloafiri, head of the NRH Rehabilitation Department, said that the arrival of Chinese acupuncture experts has greatly enriched bilateral exchanges in rehabilitation and acupuncture, providing strong support for local capacity building. She expressed hope for further cooperation in the future.
According to Zhao Xueke, leader of the 4th China Medical Team, TCM acupuncture has won broad recognition from both the government and the people of Solomon Islands and will continue to benefit more patients in the future.
Today, these small silver needles of Chinese acupuncture not only bring health and healing to the people in Solomon Islands but also serve as a bridge of enduring friendship between two nations. The project’s remarkable success has been widely praised by all sectors in Solomon Islands and reported by domestic and international media. It stands as a valuable example of international medical cooperation and a vivid contribution to building a global community of health for all.

07/11/2025

Solomon Islands Strengthens Geological Ties with China

Tianjin, China - The Solomon Islands Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the China Geological Survey.

The MOU was signed on October 23, 2025, in Tianjin, China, by Solomon Islands Ambassador to China, His Excellency Barret Salato, on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government, and Vice President of China Geological Survey, Mr Xu Xueyi.

The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the China Mining Conference, which was held from October 23 to 25, 2025.

The MOU aims to provide a framework for exchanging scientific and technical knowledge and improving geoscientific research capabilities between the two countries.

The agreement will strengthen the capabilities of the Geological Survey Division's Geo-chem laboratory and facilitate cooperation in areas such as joint research projects, training, and capacity building.

The Director of the Geological Survey, Mr Clinton Roga, expressed his excitement about the signing, highlighting the potential benefits of the collaboration, including the exchange of expertise, data sharing, and access to new technologies.

The MOU is expected to enhance the Solomon Islands' geological research capabilities and contribute to the country's development.

The signing was witnessed by dignitaries from 15 countries and officials from the Mineral Resources Authority of Papua New Guinea, demonstrating the significance of this partnership in the region.

07/11/2025

02/11/2025

MEDICAL MILESTONE

First laser surgery to remove bladder stone without surgical cut on patient achieved at NRH with help of China medical team

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https://theislandsun.com.sb/medical-milestone/