One of the most notable outcomes was China's pledge of approximately $50.7 billion in financial support for Africa over the next three years, aimed at fostering partnerships across various sectors.
As Africa accelerates its development, China's remarkable rise from adversity to becoming a global economic powerhouse provides valuable lessons.
In 2023, China's GDP reached $17.9 trillion, reflecting a staggering 223-fold increase since 1952, with an average annual growth rate of 7.9%. The per capita GDP rose to $12,700, nearing the global averageâ€"a significant leap from just $194 in 1980.
Over the past decade, China has driven more than 30% of global economic growth, improving living standards and lifting around 100 million people out of poverty while eradicating extreme poverty.
China's non-interference policy and mutual respect for Africa make it an ideal partner in the continent's modernization efforts.
Given the critical importance of healthcare to people's well-being, the sector represents a vital area for advancement in Africa. China's experience in improving wellbeing and its expertise in cutting-edge innovations offer ample opportunities for further cooperation to enhance healthcare access across the continent.
One of the most promising contributors to this shared vision is Chongqing Haifu Medical Technology Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of non-invasive ultrasound therapeutic systems.
Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Chongqing, Haifu specializes in treating malignant and benign tumors through High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology. This cutting-edge innovation has the potential to revolutionize healthcare in Africa, where access to advanced medical technologies remains limited.
Haifu, in collaboration with Chongqing Medical University and its affiliated hospitals, has developed a range of groundbreaking products.
With over 600 employees and more than 600 patents, Haifu has facilitated around 280,000 treatments worldwide. The flagship Haifu JC seriesâ€"comprising the JC300, JC, and JC200 modelsâ€"uses focused ultrasound to treat solid tumors, including uterine fibroids and cancers of the pancreas, liver, kidneys, bones, and soft tissues.
Haifu's mission to minimize harm while curing diseases lies at the core of its dedication to non-invasive treatment methods.
HIFU operates by harnessing ultrasound's ability to penetrate human skin and organs without harming surrounding structures. Ultrasound beams are generated externally and converted from mechanical to thermal energy. This energy is then focused on specific tumor areas within the body, enabling non-invasive alternatives to traditional surgery.
According to the management, this approach reduces recovery time and significantly improves patients' quality of life.
Haifu's contributions to medical science have garnered numerous national awards and international recognition. In 2005, Haifu established the National Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Medicine, China's only center of its kind for digital medical devices. The company's systems, including the JC series, are now approved in 45 countries, including the UK, Russia, and Japan.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Haifu's Global Telemedicine Service Platform completed over 4,600 ultrasound ablation procedures, demonstrating the technology's resilience and global impact.
The company has introduced its systems in 33 countries, and its president, Wang Zhibiao, is optimistic about further expansion into Africa.
'I believe this technology will become more widespread in Africa over the next two years. It offers a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative to traditional surgeries, and I hope more African countries will adopt it,' Zhibiao remarked.
Haifu has already made inroads in Africa, introducing its systems in four countries including Egypt and South Africa.
The company has organized numerous training workshops to equip African doctors with the skills to use this life-saving technology effectively.
In Johannesburg and Cairo, around 20 doctors were trained in each session, and Haifu aims to train at least five percent of African doctors, thus increasing access to advanced medical technologies across the continent.
However, Zhibiao emphasized that government-to-government discussions are crucial for the widespread adoption of such life-saving technology in Africa. Currently, Haifu collaborates with 60 hospitals outside China and around 300 hospitals within China.
As China and Africa continue to deepen their cooperation, there is room for discussion to make Haifu's innovative systems accessible in more African countries, which could mark a significant step toward improving healthcare outcomes and building a healthier future for the continent.
Théophile Niyitegeka
