NAIROBI, May 16 (Xinhua) -- Kenya hosted an international medical workshop in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, to strengthen China-Africa healthcare cooperation and improve diagnostic access across Africa through medical imaging, artificial intelligence, and digital health.
Speaking during the opening session of the International Workshop on Accessible Medical Imaging Diagnosis 2026, Yang Bin, vice chairperson of Tsinghua University Council, said the workshop carries both academic value and practical significance because, in many places, especially in primary healthcare settings and resource-limited areas, access to high-quality imaging equipment, trained professionals, and timely diagnostic services remains limited.
"We hope this workshop will provide a valuable platform for young doctors, students, and researchers, and help us work with partners in Kenya and across Africa to explore solutions that are low-cost, scalable, maintainable, and sustainable," Yang said.
Gerald Juma, chairman of the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Nairobi, who delivered remarks on behalf of Vice Chancellor Ayub Gitau, noted that the forum comes at a critical turning point for global higher education and scientific innovation.
Juma noted that modern universities must move beyond simply producing graduates and actively help solve humanity's most urgent challenges, including healthcare access, emerging diseases, and the ethical application of artificial intelligence.
Juma added that Kenya aims to emulate China's remarkable advancements in science, engineering, and technology.
Kevin Ombati, chairperson of the Kenya Association of Radiologists, noted that bridging gaps in the country's primary diagnostic access requires strong cross-border partnerships with countries such as China.
He said that these collaborations are vital for training local radiologists and safely integrating artificial intelligence tools into daily clinical workflows.
Albert Mandela, executive director of Kenya-based Luton Hospital, said that collaboration with China is expected to enable Kenya to roll out affordable healthcare technologies tailored to local needs, particularly in underserved and rural communities. ■