Yesterday marked a significant milestone as the newly completed Maseru District Hospital and Eye Clinic was officially opened by Prime Minister Sam Matekane. This impressive facility, funded with the support of the People’s Republic of China, represents an investment of over M800 million and took three years to build, with construction managed by the Shanghai Construction Group. The project was initially spearheaded by former prime ministers Thomas Thabane and Pakalitha Mosisili, who were dedicated to bringing this vision to fruition.
The hospital boasts ten functional buildings, state-of-the-art medical equipment, modern supporting facilities, office furniture, kitchenware, and a renovated dormitory for the Chinese Medical Team. Prime Minister Matekane highlighted that the hospital will offer a range of services, including dialysis, ICU, CT-scan, histopathology, dermatology, and eye testing, among others. He expressed confidence that the facility will deliver high-quality outpatient and inpatient care to the Basotho people, significantly reducing the need for medical treatment abroad. Additionally, the hospital includes training facilities and dormitories for aspiring doctors and nurses. Matekane expressed gratitude to the people and government of China, noting that this collaboration strengthens the friendship between the two nations and symbolizes unity as Lesotho celebrates 200 years as a nation.
Acting Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho, LYU Liangzhong, also attended the opening ceremony. He described the China-aided hospital as a gift to the government and people of Lesotho, expressing hope that the new hospital would enhance medical services and improve the well-being of the Basotho people. Liangzhong emphasized that medical and healthcare cooperation is a significant aspect of China-Lesotho relations. Since 1997, China has sent 18 medical teams, comprising over 180 doctors from Hubei province, to provide free medical services in Lesotho. The 18th Chinese medical team, currently working at Motebang Government Hospital, will soon transfer to Maseru District Hospital to expand their impact.
Liangzhong also highlighted the strong collaboration between China and Lesotho during the Covid-19 pandemic, including the dispatch of a Chinese medical expert group and donations of PPE and vaccines. Looking ahead, China remains committed to supporting Lesotho’s health policies, enhancing disease prevention and control, improving medical research, and making medicine more accessible and affordable. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Lesotho, as well as the 200th anniversary of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Liangzhong expressed optimism about the future, encouraging both nations to continue strengthening their partnership and exploring new opportunities for cooperation.