The Czech Republic’s medical mission to Zambia has continued to strengthen bilateral cooperation in healthcare, with a team of ten Czech heart specialists currently conducting life-saving cardiac surgeries at the National Heart Hospital in Chongwe District.
During a visit to the hospital, Czech Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Jirí Kozák said he was impressed with the progress achieved through the ongoing collaboration, describing it as a strong model of mutual learning and shared medical excellence.
“I’m happy to see the tradition of cooperation in healthcare between our countries continues. Our experts are here to share the best of their knowledge through training and capacity building,” he said.
Kozák praised the Zambian medical teams for their commitment and willingness to grow, noting that knowledge exchange goes both ways. He highlighted that children were already benefiting from the programme, and affirmed that future support would continue through strong partnerships and the Czech Republic’s cooperation with the European Union.
One of the visiting Czech heart specialists revealed that the team began operations on Tuesday and has so far successfully performed five surgeries, with a sixth scheduled for later in the day.
“We are operating on two patients per day. By the time we conclude our mission on Wednesday, we will have completed 13 operations,” the specialist said.
He explained that the ten-member delegation includes clinical and interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, theatre nurses, perfusionists, and cardiac anaesthesiologists all working hand-in-hand with Zambian professionals to strengthen cardiac care in the country.
He added that the collaboration also includes advanced training and orientation opportunities in the Czech Republic. “Last year, six Zambian specialists underwent training; this year we’ve increased the number to seven,” he said.
Hospital Superintendent Dr Chabwera Shumba thanked the Czech government and the mission for their continued support, saying the partnership is transforming the National Heart Hospital into a centre of excellence.
Kozák further disclosed that the Czech Republic is exploring plans to construct advanced medical facilities and provide modern ambulances to support Zambia’s health sector.
He said such investments will help Zambia address critical medical needs and expand access to quality healthcare services.
After the briefing, the delegation toured the hospital’s theatre and intensive care unit, interacting with medical teams and observing the ongoing operations.