On October 14, local time, the Chinese Navy’s hospital ship, “Peace Ark,” set sail from Douala Port, Cameroon, marking the conclusion of its inaugural visit to the country as part of the “Harmonious Mission-2024.” The ship is now headed to its next stop in Benin.
Around 2 PM, the “Peace Ark” departed Douala amidst a ceremonial farewell organized at the dock. Cameroonian military and government officials were in attendance, delivering speeches. Local residents, staff from the Chinese Embassy in Cameroon, employees from Chinese enterprises, and representatives from the Chinese community also gathered to see the ship off.
During its visit, the “Peace Ark” not only provided medical services onboard but also dispatched a team of emergency care specialists to the Littoral region, where they collaborated with the Cameroonian Ministry of Public Health. Through lectures, demonstrations, and case analyses, they conducted advanced and basic emergency first aid training for local healthcare workers, covering vital skills like hemorrhage control, wound dressing, immobilization, and advanced life support.
Miao Xuerong, a participant in the “Harmonious Mission-2024,” emphasized the importance of emergency skills for healthcare professionals, stating, “Our shared goal is to save lives and provide care to those in need.” The participation of local medical staff was high, fostering in-depth exchanges between them and the visiting team. This event highlighted the latest concepts and advancements in international emergency response, enhancing mutual skills and deepening friendships.
Over the course of seven days, the “Peace Ark” provided medical services to over 6,800 residents of Cameroon, conducted auxiliary tests for 2,992 people, and performed 126 surgeries, including cataract removals and myomectomies. The ship received warm welcomes and widespread praise from the local population. In addition to consultations on the main platform, the hospital ship dispatched multiple expert teams to local hospitals and military facilities for joint consultations and academic exchanges, fostering understanding and cooperation in the health sector between China and Cameroon.
