Group photo of the TCM training program members in Senegal. [Photo/Minnan Daily]

China's 20th medical aid team to Senegal, primarily composed of healthcare workers from Zhangzhou, East China's Fujian province, recently returned to Ziguinchor — which has served as the base of China-Senegal medical cooperation since 1975 — for a three-day intensive Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) training program. Locals still affectionately call the hospital where Chinese doctors first worked "Chinese Hospital".

Zhangzhou doctor Zhuang Chen demonstrated moxibustion and cupping therapies, unveiling TCM's ancient wisdom in regulating meridians and dispelling dampness.

"I feel rejuvenated," said Senegalese trainee Ivone Diatta after practicing Baduanjin (a traditional Chinese qigong exercise).

Professor Diagne from University of Dakar praised how the training made abstract TCM theories tangible, while therapist Fall Amet drove six hours to attend and requested future acupuncture workshops in his hometown.

"We aim to build an ever-present medical team here," said team leader Yang Yiguo. The emotional climax came when graduates encircled Chinese doctors, holding certificates and proclaiming in newly-learned mandarin: "We love TCM!" A testament to how ancient healing arts are forging new bonds between nations.

A Zhangzhou doctor guides trainees to identify acupoints. [Photo/Minnan Daily]

A Zhangzhou doctor leads the trainees in a Baduanjin practice session. [Photo/Minnan Daily]