Peace Ark: South Africans flock to Chinese hospital ship in Cape Town

Cape Town residents queue for free medical care due to the poor state of the country's health sector.

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A financial crisis in one of Africa’s biggest and most developed economies has left public services underfunded, and many people say they cannot afford private healthcare because of soaring prices.

It comes months after the government signed into law a controversial new health scheme, which aims to provide universal healthcare for all, but is facing threats of legal challenges.

Since China's so-called Peace Ark arrived last week, more than 2,000 South Africans have been treated on board - ranging from maternity check-ups and cataract surgeries to cupping therapy.

China enjoys a strong political partnership with South Africa, and this is Beijing's latest show of soft power.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdx6462wl07o

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