From Shunde, Guangdong to the West African Desert: Craftsmanship without borders

GX Foundation’s “Cataract Blindness Elimination Programme” has now completed over 22,000 free surgeries worldwide!

This all took place inside an 18-tonne, 50-foot-long mobile eye treatment centre (METC). This “mobile fortress” is equipped with state-of-the-art cataract surgical equipment, manufactured and assembled by the Guangdong Tourwin Energy-saving Vehicles Company, and operated by dedicated medical teams from mainland China.

The guardian and unsung hero of these METCs is WANG Qiang (Engineer WANG) from Ruyuan, Shaoguan, now working in Shunde, Guangdong. Part engineer, part miracle worker, he brings his expertise to every mission, having accompanied teams to three African countries to ensure every surgery runs smoothly.

Engineer WANG began working with GX in 2018 and has since provided technical support for eight METCs. Two years ago, he travelled to Africa to oversee the deployment and operation of these units. On 8 August this year, he set out again – this time to Mauritania and Senegal – guiding the relocation of two units through journeys lasting over 15 and 10 hours respectively.

During the nearly 20-day mission, the convoy navigated through vast deserts, muddy lowlands, and flooded roads. Before each departure, Engineer WANG meticulously inspected every detail, from complex power supply systems and electrical wiring to troubleshooting precision equipment and final calibrations.

Having made four trips to Africa, he knows the METC better than anyone: from factory packing and overseas shipping to customs clearance, assembly, and final arrival at project sites. Through repeated relocations, he has become an “Africa expert”, quickly adapting to the 8-hour time difference, learning local cultures, and building deep connections with patients.

He shared: “This programme doesn’t just restore sight, it embodies the spirit of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. It has broadened my horizons and allowed surgical units made in China to serve the world. This is true 'people-to-people connectivity': healing with compassion, loving without borders, and making the world a better, kinder place.”

Behind every successful project lies a dedicated team and countless unsung supporters. Engineer WANG and the company behind him have offered unwavering support over the years, ensuring Chinese craftsmanship travels with GX to the world’s most remote corners, bringing light and hope to those living in darkness.