On April 7, People's Daily, in its report on China-Africa traditional Chinese medicine cooperation achievements, highlighted the promotion and application of the national-level intangible cultural heritage — Li Zhongyu Chuzhen (Pestle Needle) Therapy — in South Africa. The report noted that the Africa Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Center, which serves as the acupuncture clinical practice base of the University of Johannesburg, utilizes Chuzhen therapy in its diagnosis and treatment, receiving high recognition from local residents.

As an important institution for the preservation of this therapy, our hospital has actively promoted Sichuan-style TCM technologies to "go global." From July to August 2025, the hospital hosted the "Learning TCM in Sichuan — TCM (Chuzhen) Cultural Exchange Study Camp," attracting 50 participants from countries including South Africa, Indonesia, France, and Vietnam to study in Sichuan. Hu Zijing, President of the African Society of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture and Associate Professor at the University of Johannesburg, recommended that South African participants take part in the program and has actively promoted the clinical application of Chuzhen therapy in Africa.

Previously, Hu Zijing led a delegation to visit our hospital, where both sides reached cooperation intentions on acupuncture education resource sharing and joint training of high-level talent. From the study camp to community health clinics, Chuzhen therapy, with its advantages of being "non-invasive, painless, and easily accepted," is bringing health and well-being to the African people.