Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is gaining traction in Zimbabwe, particularly after the inauguration of a TCM exhibition room at the Zimbabwe-China TCM and Acupuncture Center in Harare. This exhibition room, launched in June under the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, aims to familiarize the public with TCM culture and treatments.
Hu Sha, the center’s director, highlighted that TCM includes much more than just acupuncture. The exhibition room features various elements of TCM, such as Chinese herbs, cupping tools, massage therapy instruments, methods for preparing Chinese herbs, and related literature.
Hu Sha hopes that the exhibition room will serve as a valuable opportunity for Zimbabweans to learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and foster collaboration between TCM and local traditional medicine. Since the center’s opening in 2020, the number of patients receiving free treatment has increased significantly. “We treat between 30 and 60 people daily, and our appointments are booked until next February. I am pleased that people trust and believe in TCM, and I am glad it helps them treat diseases and relieve pain,” Hu Sha said.
Harare resident Farai Mugwisi, who tried acupuncture for headaches, shared her positive experience: “Every time I come here, I feel calm. It’s like my body is rejuvenated, and I’m stronger than before.” She also introduced her mother, a stroke patient, to acupuncture, which led to noticeable improvements. Luisa Maidza, another TCM beneficiary, reported relief from chronic back pain that had troubled her for over a decade. “It’s wonderful to receive such life-changing treatment without cost,” the 58-year-old said.
To meet the growing demand, a group of 10 Zimbabweans graduated from a TCM training course at the center in 2022. Munashe Mboneka, an assistant at the center, enrolled in the course after recognizing the benefits and increasing demand for TCM in Zimbabwe.
