President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the Churches Health Association of Zambia (CHAZ) for promoting unity among its members and for its ongoing commitment to delivering healthcare services country wide.
President Hichilema notes that saving humanity and providing quality health for all, is the government’s priority, adding that the unity exhibited should not only be deepened but also protected.
He states that CHAZ is a trusted partner of the government that demonstrates sustainability and consistent support by complementing the government’s health efforts.
The Head of State made these remarks during the CHAZ’s 47th General Council meeting held in Lusaka yesterday.
President Hichilema has since underscored the importance of government and CHAZ working together to ensure that drugs in health facilities are not pilfered.
He further called for the harmonisation of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) and CHAZ systems to foster medicine availability in health institutions, citing that stealing drugs will not be condoned.
President Hichilema further reiterated the government’s open-door policy of dialogue for resolving issues, citing that through dialogue issues pertaining to the wellbeing of the will can be sorted.
And Minister of Health, Elijah Muchima disclosed that through government’s commitment, President Hichilema directed the placement of the 254 classified health workers, recognising CHAZ in fostering health services.
Dr Muchima also reiterated the government’s position in ensuring that medicines are not stolen, adding that progress is often hindered by people.
Meanwhile, the World Council of Churches Representative , Nomonde Mqhayi-Mbambo reiterated the role of faith based health institutions such as CHAZ in fostering assistance especially through health care services to far flung areas.
Dr Mqhayi-Mbambo called on the church to add their voices in the establishment of health policies.
And Representative Churches Forum (RCF) Chairperson, Evans Chinyemba re-echoed the government’s commitment to being a partner of the church.
Bishop Chinyemba, noted that the Church has been providing health care services by complimenting the government’s efforts.
Earlier, CHAZ Board Chairperson, Justin Matepa, commended the government for considering his institution’s request to place 254 classified employees from its member institutions into the government payroll.
Fr Matepa highlighted that this demonstrates the government’s recognition of the important role the church health facilities play in delivering health services.
In her welcoming remarks, CHAZ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Karen Sichali-Sichinga expressed gratitude to the government adding that the institution mostly depends on government support.
It’s often said your God works in Mysterious ways