On March 2, 2025, Professor Chen Weirong, Chief Expert of the "Bright Journey" medical aid team dispatched by Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University, successfully completed her mission and returned to Guangzhou.
Renewing the Mission of "Bright Journey"
In 2024, an agreement brimming with hope and promise was signed between China and Zimbabwe. The "Bright Journey" cataract surgery program, a collaborative effort between the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Health and Child Care of the Republic of Zimbabwe, officially marked the launch of China’s medical aid initiative in Zimbabwe.
Given the complexity and urgency of the task, after thorough deliberation, the National Health Commission appointed Professor Chen Weirong, a highly skilled expert in cataract surgery with extensive experience in international medical aid, as the Chief Expert for this mission. This was the first time China had appointed and dispatched a Chief Expert for the "Bright Journey" program.
Since 2013, Professor Chen has led 19 international medical aid missions, spanning 10 countries across Asia, Africa, and Oceania, accumulating rich experience in organization, coordination, and international collaboration. Upon accepting the task, Professor Chen quickly assembled a team from Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center and collaborated with the medical team from Hunan Province to meticulously review and adjust the list of supplies. To ensure the smooth progress of the project, she traveled to Hunan for an on-site inspection, gaining in-depth understanding of the preparations, providing precise suggestions for improvements, and inviting members of the Hunan medical team to Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center for an intensive week-long training program, enhancing the team’s expertise.
Members of the Hunan "Bright Journey" medical team receiving training at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center
Leading by Example
Upon arriving in Zimbabwe, Professor Chen swiftly established a scientific and efficient workflow, personally overseeing every aspect from surgical procedures and infection control to medical quality. Whether it was cleaning the operating rooms, pre-surgical eye washing, or diagnosing and performing complex surgeries, her dedication set an example for all team members. The medical staff expressed, "With Professor Chen here, we feel confident!" Her professionalism and charisma deeply impressed every Chinese and Zimbabwean medical worker involved in the "Bright Journey" program. Dr. Boniface Macheka, Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe, exclaimed with admiration, "I am deeply impressed by Professor Chen. Not only is her surgical skill exceptional, and her academic stature high, but her leadership and dedication are truly remarkable."
The medical team with Dr. Boniface Macheka, Head of Ophthalmology at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare
Professor Chen introduced Zimbabwean medical staff to the remarkable advancements and achievements in Chinese ophthalmology over recent decades, providing them with a new perspective on China’s capabilities in the field. Several Zimbabwean experts expressed their desire to pursue further training and study in China.
Professor Chen Weirong introducing Chinese ophthalmology and the development of Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center to Dr. Boniface Macheka
Professor Chen Weirong mentoring local medical staff
Fruits of the Mission
Over five intense days of collaboration with Zimbabwean doctors, the Chinese ophthalmology team completed their mission with remarkable efficiency: performing 613 cataract surgeries (408 by the Chinese team and 205 by the Zimbabwean team) with zero complications. This achievement garnered significant attention and praise in Zimbabwe.
Upon completing the mission, Professor Chen accepted a certificate of appreciation issued by the Ministry of Health and Child Care of Zimbabwe on behalf of the medical team. This honor not only recognizes Professor Chen’s outstanding contributions but also celebrates the dedication of every medical worker involved in the "Bright Journey" program, showcasing China’s excellence in international medical aid and its role as a responsible global partner.
Professor Chen Weirong accepting the certificate of appreciation from the Ministry of Health and Child Care of Zimbabwe on behalf of the medical team
