Central Province Permanent Secretary Milner Mwanakampwe has called for strengthened health advisory and surveillance systems to enhance public health security and emergency preparedness in the province.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy Permanent Secretary Godfrey Chitambala during the launch of the Central Province Health Advisory Committee (CPHAC), Dr. Mwanakampwe said the initiative is aimed at improving proactive responses to emerging health threats such as cholera and environmental hazards.
Dr. Mwanakampwe urged health workers to adopt a more action‑oriented approach, with a particular focus on reducing maternal mortality, improving health infrastructure and ensuring consistent availability of essential medicines in all facilities.
And Central Province Director of Health Elijor Mutoloki said the province has intensified efforts to strengthen health governance through improved oversight, infrastructure development, and emergency preparedness.
Dr Mutoloki further noted that plans are underway to construct a district hospital in Kabwe’s Mpima area to expand access to health services.
Meanwhile, Kabwe Central Hospital Medical Superintendent George Chipulu reported an 87 percent drug availability rate, supported by steady supplies from the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supply Agency (ZAMMSA).
Dr Chipulu noted that antiretroviral and tuberculosis drugs have remained consistently available.
Dr. Chipulu also commended the government for establishing an oxygen plant, which has ensured a reliable and cost‑effective supply of medical oxygen.
He said that before the plant was built, the hospital spent up to K150,000 per month on oxygen, purchasing about 20 cylinders daily at K500 each.
He said the new plant now provides uninterrupted oxygen supply, significantly improving patient care.
