Zhang Junqiao, the leader of the 27th Chinese medical team in Tanzania, is training local nurses in advanced anesthesia and first aid techniques at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam. Thanks to Zhang’s patient and methodical teaching style, young nurse Elick William Mwakatungila has gained both confidence and technical skills, successfully learning procedures such as video laryngoscopy and central line placement. Despite language barriers, Zhang effectively uses gestures and hands-on demonstrations, instilling not only medical knowledge but also patience, dedication, and compassion.
Under Zhang’s leadership, the Chinese medical team is addressing the hospital’s critical shortage of anesthetists by training local nurses to handle complex cases independently. With Zhang’s support, Elick was selected for a 20-day advanced anesthesia training program in China. He aims to return with new expertise to share with his colleagues. Zhang’s mentorship not only supports the growth of individual nurses but also contributes to strengthening the broader Tanzanian healthcare system.