LUANDA - Angola's capital has ushered in a first Chinese-funded private hospital, which is expected to allay the strains of health services caused by a fast growing population.

Zhong Yan Hospital, which opened early this week in the Zango district of Luanda, was inaugurated by Angolan Minister of Health Jose Van Dunem, Governor of Luanda Graciano Domingos, other Angolan government officials and representatives of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Angola.

Addressing the ceremony, Van Duna said recent years had witnessed a population explosion in the Zango district of Luanda, where the medical care system has been insufficient.

The minister thanked Chinese entrepreneurs for opening the first comprehensive medical facility in the district.

Zhong Yan Hospital, established with an investment of 10 million US dollars from China's Zhong Xing Construction company, currently has over 100 doctors and nurses from China, Cuba and Angola and 87 beds for inpatients.

Shen Yongzhong, president of Zhong Xing Construction in Angola, said his company entered the Angolan post-war reconstruction process 10 years ago, and the decision to open the hospital was part of his company's plan to pay back to the Angolan society and provide qualified medical services to the local population and Chinese expatriates working in Angola.

"Choosing to build a hospital means dedication and responsibility, we will try to build Zhong Yan into the best hospital in Angola," Shen said.