Somali doctor says studying in China was key to his success

When Abdullahi Abditawab Jama first traveled to China in 2007, he was just 18 years old, curious and eager to see a world far beyond Somalia. Nearly two decades later, Dr. Jama credits that decision with shaping not only his medical career but also his contribution to helping rebuild Somalia’s health sector.

"I am a radiologist, and I’m also the president of the Somali Society of Radiology," Dr. Jama said. "I graduated from China and came back to Somalia in 2018. I've been here for the last five or six years working as a radiologist."

Since his return, Dr. Jama helped establish a nationwide teleradiology project, designed to address Somalia's severe shortage of specialist doctors. Through the initiative, radiology services now reach hospitals and clinics across the country. He is also a co-founder of Sahan Diagnostic Center, one of the facilities providing advanced imaging services.

"We're currently working all over Somalia, since there is a lack of many radiologists," he said. "So we try our best to fill the gap."

Dr. Jama's journey to China began with encouragement from his uncle, who persuaded his father that China would offer strong educational opportunities. At the time, China was culturally unfamiliar territory.

"I went to a country that I never heard of in terms of culture," he said. "But the good thing about China is the people are really nice and open. Even if you don't speak Chinese, they still try to communicate using sign language."

Recalling his early days as an international student, he said that everyday interactions, such as buying food or navigating daily life, became lessons in human connection.

"I would speak my own language and he would understand just by giving a sign," he said.

China also offered a deeply international learning environment. Dr. Jama studied alongside classmates from more than 15 countries, forming friendships that broadened his worldview.

"For me, that experience was one of the best things that happened to me," he said.

He is not alone in that assessment. According to Dr. Jama, many Somali professionals who studied in China now occupy key roles back home, particularly in medicine and engineering.

"The most successful doctors currently in Somalia are those doctors who studied in China," he said.

After returning home, Dr. Jama and fellow graduates formed an alumni network known as the Somali Chinese Professional's Association (SOCPA). The group holds annual gatherings, maintains ties with the Chinese Embassy, and supports returning graduates as they reintegrate into the workforce.

"We try to welcome them. We try to help them find new jobs and adapt back to the country." 

The association also helps high school graduates secure scholarships to study in China. 

For Dr. Jama, the education he received abroad has translated into practical impact at home, strengthening medical services, mentoring young professionals and building institutions in a country where expertise is urgently needed.

"It's one of the best experiences that you can have."

Edited by CGTN Africa reporter Marion Gachuhi