Minister of Health Alex Katakwe has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s healthcare system through continued investment in the welfare of nurses and midwives.
Speaking during the symbolic handover of 15, 333 nurses and midwives’ uniforms in Lusaka, Dr Katakwe said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve service delivery and boost morale among frontline health workers and will be distributed to all the 10 provinces countrywide.
He disclosed that in the 2026 budget, the government has allocated funds for the procurement of an additional 15,000 uniforms to ensure more nurses and midwives benefit from the programme.
“These uniforms are a symbol of our commitment to improving the welfare of nurses and midwives and strengthening the health system to deliver quality care,” Dr Katakwe said.
The media reports that the Minister made an emphasis that while uniforms enhance professionalism and infection prevention, healthcare workers must also uphold high standards of discipline, compassion, and ethical conduct.
He cautioned against negative attitudes towards patients, stating that Government will not tolerate unprofessional behaviour in health facilities.
“While we provide these uniforms, we also expect the highest standards of discipline, compassion and ethical conduct in the delivery of healthcare services,” he added.
Dr Katakwe further called on members of the public to treat health workers with respect, noting that mutual understanding is key to delivering quality healthcare, in line with the National Health Strategic Plan (2022–2026) and Vision 2030.
Meanwhile, Nursing Services Director, Daphne Shamambo described the uniform handover as a long-awaited milestone for the nursing and midwifery profession.
Ms Shamambo said the uniforms symbolize unity, professionalism, and accountability, while also reinforcing the dignity of nurses and midwives across the country.
She added that the initiative will enhance infection prevention and control, improve the professional image of nurses, and motivate them to continue delivering quality healthcare services.
Ms Shamambo further urged nurses and midwives to wear the uniforms with pride and a deep sense of responsibility, stressing that they should translate into improved service delivery for communities.
She thanked the Government for investing in the nursing workforce and reaffirmed the profession’s commitment to ethical practice, compassion, and excellence.
And giving a vote of thanks, a midwife Gift Muvombo said the provision of uniforms goes beyond fabric and stitching, as it restores pride, strengthens professional identity, and reaffirms the dignity with which nurses and midwives serve patients daily.
Ms Muvombo expressed gratitude to Government for recognizing the critical role played by nurses and midwives in delivering quality healthcare across the country.
He pledged that nurses and midwives will wear the uniforms with pride and purpose, while recommitting themselves to excellence, compassion, and ethical practice in service to the people of Zambia.
Health Minister hails uniform initiative
He must be desparate for what is an expected and normal undertaking