To mark the International Day of the African Child, the 27th China (Hunan) Medical Team to Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the local Red Cross, conducted a comprehensive health and charity outreach programme at an orphanage in the Waterloo community of Freetown.
The event brought together the full medical team, Red Cross volunteers, and children from the orphanage, reflecting a strong spirit of collaboration and a warm community atmosphere.
The medical team deployed a multidisciplinary group of specialists, including experts in ophthalmology, otolaryngology, pediatrics, internal medicine, and general surgery, to provide systematic health assessments for more than 50 children.
During the ophthalmology screenings, the team conducted visual acuity tests as well as professional assessments for colour blindness and strabismus, aiming to identify and address potential vision development issues at an early stage. Throughout the examinations, specialists also identified common health conditions such as refractive errors, peptic ulcers, and umbilical hernias. The team provided on-site medical guidance and outlined clear follow-up care plans, ensuring that each child received appropriate attention.
In parallel with the clinical screenings, the team organised an interactive “Fun Fair” within the orphanage compound, which attracted over 200 students from nearby schools. Team members led engaging activities such as skipping, arrow toss, basketball games, and introductory Chinese language lessons, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural exchange.
During the event, the team also donated school bags, stationery, toys, and food supplies to the orphanage, bringing additional support and festive cheer to the children.
Reverend Father Alexander H. M. Kamara, Assistant Parish Priest and chaplain of the Waterloo Orthodox Christian School (Morabie Waterloo), expressed his gratitude, stating that the medical team’s visit provided essential healthcare support and that the care offered by the Chinese team had deeply touched the hearts of the children present.
Through this initiative, the 27th China (Hunan) Medical Team not only established detailed health records for the children but also extended its outreach to the wider community. The event underscored the team’s commitment to strengthening friendship and health cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.