HCOWA China-Ghana Medical Academic Exchange Committee (H-MAEC) has successfully hosted the inaugural China-Ghana Minimally Invasive Surgery Innovation & Knowledge Exchange Summit under the theme “Precision, Progress, and Partnership in Minimally Invasive Surgery”.
Held at the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), University of Ghana, the summit marked a milestone in fostering cross-border medical collaboration and innovation.
The landmark event convened leading surgeons, gynecologists, and orthopedic specialists from China and West Africa, creating an exceptional platform for academic exchange. Discussions focused on the latest advancements, practical challenges, and emerging technologies in the field of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). With a strong emphasis on integrating theory and practice, the summit offered hands-on training and expert guidance aimed at empowering both current and future surgical professionals.
In his opening address, Dr. Yang Yongguang, Chief Surgeon and Captain of the 14th Chinese Medical Team to Ghana, highlighted the spirit of partnership that underpinned the summit.
“This summit is more than an exchange of medical knowledge—it is a partnership forged in friendship, uniting doctors, hospitals, and nations in shared purpose and lasting collaboration,” he stated, encouraging participants to learn, grow, and impact lives together.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Samuel Debrah, President of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, lauded H-MAEC for organizing such a timely and transformative summit. He emphasized that MIS represents a paradigm shift in surgical care, underscoring Africa’s urgent need to align with the global pace of surgical innovation.
From China, Dr. Cai Dingbin, Secretary of Guangdong Medical University Affiliated Hospital, spoke on the symbolic and practical significance of the summit, describing it as “another elevation of China-Ghana friendship, setting an exemplary model for medical technology innovation and transformation across Africa.”
Among the many insightful presentations on the various aspects of MIS:
- Prof. Zhang Yuanqi, Director of Tiemenguan Hospital, spoke on the application of laparoscopic techniques in breast surgery, emphasizing the potential for improved cosmetic outcomes and the future role of robot-assisted procedures.
- Mr. S.M. Zakariah, FRCS, retired IGP and Fellow of the College, addressed the challenges associated with MIS in Africa. He called for targeted training of residents and surgeons to reduce procedural risks and ensure widespread, safe adoption of these techniques.
- Dr. Nabil Nuamah, Consultant Surgeon at 37 Military Hospital, advocated for the institutionalization of MIS as a standard practice, identifying it as a critical step for progress.
- Dr. Huajin Huang introduced the application of 3D printing in treating pelvic and acetabular fractures, showcasing its role in achieving precision and minimally invasive outcomes.
- Associate Prof. Zhu Yafei, Deputy Chief of the Women’s Center, delivered a philosophical perspective on MIS, stating: “Modern medicine is not almighty, and laparoscopic surgery is not synonymous with minimally invasive surgery. It is more of a philosophy than a technique—one rooted in reverence for life and the principle of ‘first, do no harm.’”
- Dr. Yang Yongguang also presented on technological advances in laparoscopic hepatectomy, noting that laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy is now a mature and standardized operation.
The summit which was brilliantly moderated by Manager of Essence Lab and Clinic, Mr. Benjamin Kwei Mensah also featured a product demonstration showcasing the Plasma Surgery Machine for thyroid, ENT, breast, and arthroscopy procedures. He emphasized the transition from heat-based to kinetic energy, improving precision and minimizing tissue trauma.
China-West Africa Medical Expo
Mr. Prince Opoku Dogbey, Vice President of HCOWA Association extended a warm invitation to all stakeholders to participate in the upcoming 2025 China-West Africa Medical And Health Industry Expo And AI Diagnosis And Project Cooperation Summit scheduled to take place from August 20–22, 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre. He beckoned the audience to actively participate to further strengthen partnerships and accelerate progress in healthcare delivery across the region.
The summit concluded with vibrant networking sessions and a photo exhibition, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose that defined the day.
The 2025 Ghana Minimally Invasive Surgery Innovation & Knowledge Exchange Summit stands as a testament to what can be achieved when nations, professionals, and institutions come together to advance health, technology, and human well-being.
