Acupuncture Reaches Africa — Canadian Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Joins Medical Collaboration in Mozambique

BEIRA, Mozambique / VANCOUVER, Canada

March 2026

Mozambique, an East African country with a population of approximately 34 million, faces a shortage of healthcare resources. From February 23 to March 2, 2026, Dr. John Situ, President of the Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Canada, and Eric Wei joined a Tzu Chi delegation led by Deputy CEO Lin Jing-Hsien to visit Mozambique. The delegation visited hospitals and communities to understand local healthcare needs and explore the potential role of acupuncture in the country.

During the visit, the delegation met with representatives from the Catholic University of Mozambique (UCM) in Beira to discuss cooperation on acupuncture education. Dr. Situ introduced the principles of acupuncture and the development and regulation of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Canada. Provincial Health Minister Ms. Graciana attended the session and personally experienced acupuncture treatment during the demonstration clinic.

The delegation also met with officials from the Departments of Health and Education to present a proposed acupuncture training curriculum and discuss the possibility of establishing a three-to-five-year Traditional Chinese Medicine education program in Mozambique.

In the capital city of Maputo, the delegation organized a free medical clinic for local residents. Many patients experienced acupuncture for the first time and reported relief from symptoms after treatment.

Looking ahead, the Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine will collaborate with the Tzu Chi Mozambique chapter to train local acupuncture practitioners through online theoretical instruction and local clinical training. Dr. Situ emphasized the ‘Train the Trainer’ concept.

Helping those who suffer from illness is the original motivation behind studying medicine. Caring for people in need across different countries and cultures reflects the humanitarian spirit long upheld by Canadian physicians. We sincerely call upon the support of the community to advance this meaningful initiative.

Contact

Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Email: info@tcmcollege.com

Email: info@tzuchi.ca

Website: www.tcmcollege.com

About the College

Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, located in Vancouver, Canada, is dedicated to providing professional education in Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture. The college promotes patient-centred care, professional ethics, and international collaboration in healthcare education.