A journey that felt tailored to me
Was my nomination for this all-important seminar in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, by design or default? Was it chance, luck, or merit-based? Whatever the reason, I can confidently say this experience felt custom-made for professionals like me, who are deeply engaged in the fight against malaria.
The invitation came through the Gambia Red Cross Society to our program the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP), a key partner in the national drive to prevent and eliminate malaria in The Gambia. Sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the seminar was organized for countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative at the Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases (JIPD) from July 24 to Aug 6, 2025.
Alfusainey Manneh poses for a photo at the Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Disease. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
About Me
I am Alfusainey Manneh, a senior program officer at the NMCP under the Ministry of Health in The Gambia, West Africa. My professional foundation lies in nursing and midwifery services, complemented by a postgraduate diploma in public health management. I am currently completing my Master of Science in Community Health Nursing at the University of The Gambia, with my dissertation pending submission.
Greetings from Wuxi
I bring warm greetings from the Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Disease, located in the vibrant city of Wuxi. Two weeks into our visit, the experience was already profoundly enriching intellectually, professionally, and culturally. From the five-star accommodation and generous buffets to excursions through bustling shopping malls, electronic hubs, and the majestic Great Wall in Beijing, we've lived moments that will remain etched in our memories. Wuxi has offered us more than hospitality – it has offered inspiration.
A seminar rooted in practical excellence
The seminar at JIPD is a masterclass in strategic health programming. Designed for malaria-endemic countries like The Gambia, it blends theoretical insights with practical, evidence-based strategies drawn from China's extraordinary journey from over 30 million annual malaria cases to zero indigenous cases. This transformation is not just statistical it's a powerful testament to what is possible when a nation commits to health equity and disease elimination.
I strongly encourage colleagues at NMCP and our partners to participate in future seminars. Understanding the "China concept", a synergy of strategic planning, community mobilization, and multisectoral coordination, is essential for adapting their success to our own national situation.
Pillars of China's malaria elimination success
China's achievement is anchored in four key pillars:
Nationalism and political will: Unified commitment across all levels of government;
Intersectoral collaboration: Seamless coordination between health, education, infrastructure, and other sectors;
Local resource allocation: Strategic investment in domestic capacity and innovation;
Strong leadership: Visionary guidance and accountability throughout implementation.
These elements have not only helped fight malaria but have also catalyzed development across sectors from healthcare and agriculture to infrastructure and technology.
Participants in the seminar receive training at Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Disease. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Disease: A global training hub
JIPD stands as a beacon of global health education. Certified by the World Health Organization (WHO), the institute has trained over 2,300 professionals from 85 developing countries over the past two decades. Their commitment to south-south cooperation is evident in their openness, discipline, and cultural humility. The experts here are not only knowledgeable but also deeply invested in mentoring and capacity-building for partner nations.
Chinese scientist guides participants in the seminar. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
China as a mentor
In China, we have found more than a host – we have found a mentor. Their journey offers a roadmap that is both aspirational and attainable. As the Gambia strengthens its efforts to eliminate malaria, the lessons from China will serve as a guiding light in our pursuit of health equity, resilience, and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, a shared vision for malaria elimination
As I reflect on this transformative experience in Wuxi, I am reminded that the path to malaria elimination is not a solitary journey, it is a shared endeavor rooted in solidarity, learning, and mutual respect. China's story has shown us that with unwavering commitment, strategic coordination, and community-driven action, even the most daunting public health challenges can be overcome.
This seminar has reignited our collective ambition and equipped us with tools to reimagine what is possible in The Gambia. The friendships forged, the knowledge exchanged, and the inspiration drawn from China's success will continue to guide our efforts long after we return home.
Let this be the beginning of deeper South-South collaboration where nations not only share resources but also dreams, determination, and the courage to build healthier futures together.
If you would like to share your Wuxi stories, then send us your writings at wuxiexpatstories@outlook.com.
