Another Platform for Traditional Chinese Medicine Established in South Africa

Johannesburg | October 18 2025 — The University of Johannesburg and the Africa Centre for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture have formally entered into a partnership with the People’s Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (also the People’s Hospital of Fujian Province). The agreement, signed on October 16, aims to further advance the global outreach and localised integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Africa.

Group photo of participants. Image provided by the Africa Centre for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.

Prof Zijing Hu, Associate Professor at the University of Johannesburg and Director of the Africa Centre for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, represented both the university and the Center at the signing ceremony. Through this collaboration, the partner institutions will work together to promote distinctive Fujian-style external therapies, such as Li’s Flying Needle Technique and Yang-style Tuina, and support their application and training across Africa.

The three parties have maintained a strong working relationship in research and talent development over recent years, establishing a foundation of mutual trust. The new formal agreement is expected to elevate the partnership to a broader and more comprehensive level, strengthening contributions to healthcare development in South Africa and neighboring regions. Cooperation will include collaborative teaching, research projects, and clinical exchange.

During the event, Prof Hu was also appointed as a Distinguished Expert by the People’s Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He received an official letter of appointment and delivered a public lecture titled “Practices and Lessons from Overseas Higher Education under the Belt and Road Initiative: The Experience of the University of Johannesburg.” Prof Hu engaged in interactive discussions with staff members and students following the presentation.

While touring demonstrations of Fujian-style therapeutic techniques, Prof Hu observed treatments including Li’s Flying Needle and Yang-style Tuina. He noted that these methods are practical, efficient, and highly adaptable, making them well-suited for broader use in African healthcare settings. He emphasised that their promotion can expand access to care for local communities and further energise the growth of TCM in Africa.