Photo by Li Zhiwei

Dar es salaam (People's Daily) – China’s naval hospital ship, Peace Ark, arrived in Dar es Salaam on November 19 for an eight-day humanitarian visit providing free health and medical care for the East African nation.

In honor of Peace Ark’s second visit in seven years, a welcoming ceremony was held to greet its arrival. 

Peace Ark Task Group Commander Guan Bailin said his team will provide health services, humanitarian aid, and offer specialized training in health-related areas to consolidate and promote healthy bilateral relations and strengthen professional exchange between China and Tanzania.

Photo by Li Zhiwei

"China has helped Tanzania in different sectors,” said Tanzania Naval Commander Richard Makanzo, while showing his gratitude towards China for allowing Peace Ark to revisit his country.

China’s Peace Ark launched its Africa medical voyage in July, and has so far provided free health services to Djibouti, Sierra Leone, Gabon, Angola, Mozambique and the Republic of Congo. Tanzania marks the expedition’s seventh port.

Photo by Li Zhiwei

Stretching 178 meters for a combined area of 4,000 square meters, China’s Peace Ark is a floating medical marvel that has saved thousands of lives. So far, there are only two hospital ships of its kind in the world, with the other one belonging to the US Navy.

The humanitarian hospital vessel is equipped with advanced medical supplies, eight operating rooms, seven healthcare offices, and 300 beds.

Photo by Li Zhiwei

China’s Peace Ark medical staff, most of whom are graduates of the Naval Medical University, consists of a 115 specialists and healthcare providers, with over half holding high ranking positions.