Zambia and the United States government are expected to soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on health assistance, marking a significant milestone in the two countries’ long-standing partnership in the health sector.
The MoU outlines a performance-based, co-financed partnership aimed at strengthening Zambia’s health system, while supporting the country’s transition towards self-reliance by 2023.
This was contained in a statement issued to the media by the Ministry of Health Principal Public Relations Officer, Georgia Chimombo.
Ms Chimombo explained that the MoU is expected to strengthen Zambia’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to disease outbreaks through improved surveillance systems, the training of over 100 field epidemiologists, and strengthened rapid response mechanisms.
She added that the partnership will sustain and expand access to essential health services, including HIV, Tuberculosis, Malaria, and Maternal and Child Health services.
“Under the proposed agreement, it will also enhance disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, and health data systems, while progressively transitioning key health system functions, such as supply chains, health workforce management, and digital systems, to full GRZ ownership by 2030,” she said.
Ms Chimombo added that the MoU prioritises a secure, efficient, and transparent supply chain for medicines and medical supplies, leveraging national systems such as the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA).
She said the investments will support procurement, storage, distribution, and tracking of essential health commodities nationwide.
Ms Chimobmo noted that once signed, implementation will be overseen by a Joint Health Cooperation Steering Committee.
“Co-investment will be linked to performance, with Zambia’s annual health expenditure projected to increase from approximately US$628 Million in 2026 to over US$1 Billion by 2030.
“This approach is designed to ensure continuity of services as external support gradually declines,” she added.
Ms Chimombo also indicated that the proposed MoU reflects a shared commitment by the Governments of Zambia and the United States to build a resilient, sustainable, and nationally led health system, one that continues to deliver quality health services for all Zambians beyond external assistance.
