A team of Chinese medical specialists visited Sataua District Hospital on Saturday, 1st March 2025, providing free medical services to residents of Sataua, Vaisigano 2 Constituency, and Itu Asau District in Samoa.
The visit, organised through a partnership between the governments of Samoa and the People’s Republic of China, brought specialised healthcare services to the remote area. Hon. Valasi Luapitofanua To’omaga Selesele, Samoa’s Minister of Health, opened the event, welcoming the medical team and expressing gratitude to the Chinese government.
“It is our prayer that this partnership we have established through this imperative program will continue for the future to promote health and well-being of our people,” the Minister said.
The Minister said it is rare for residents in remote areas to access such specialised services and called the program a blessing for the community. “This program has become a blessing for our people to access these special services free of charge,” he added.
During the closing ceremony, the Minister reiterated his gratitude to the Chinese medical specialists, praising their compassion and dedication. “Your expertise, compassion, and unwavering dedication truly made a difference in our people’s lives,” he said.
The Chinese medical team not only provided medical services but also engaged in collaborative learning with local healthcare staff. As a gesture of appreciation, the Minister presented a traditional Samoan gift, the ‘nifo ‘oti’ or bush knife, to Chinese Ambassador Fei Mingxing and the medical team.
He explained, “The sharp edges of the nifo oti symbolise the need for our health professionals to be vigilant and continue to upgrade specialised skills to respond to health demands of our people.”
The event concluded with well-wishes for the Chinese delegation. “Wishing you safe travels back and God bless,” said the Minister in his closing remarks.
