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Dr. Lasuba’s Official Visit to Hon. Moses F. Moyo, Second Deputy Speaker of Zambia’s National Assembly
Zambia continues to exhibit unwavering political commitment and national ownership in enhancing the health and well-being of its citizens. The country’s increased allocation of resources toward health financing, disease prevention, and system capacity building underscores the recognition that a robust health sector is essential for sustainable development. The World Health Organization (WHO), with over 70 years of global health leadership, aligns closely with this vision, striving to protect lives and promote health equity for all populations.
Health as a Pillar of National Progress
Hon. Moses F. Moyo highlights the intrinsic link between health and productivity, stating, “A healthy population is a productive population.” He stresses that the Zambian Parliament places health at the forefront of its development agenda, ensuring that policies are inclusive, transparent, and backed by sufficient funding.
Milestones in Zambia’s Health Sector Since Independence
Since gaining independence, Zambia has achieved remarkable progress in areas such as primary healthcare delivery, immunization coverage, maternal and child health, and the control of infectious diseases. Parliamentary oversight and legislative action have been instrumental in these advancements. Notably, the health budget has increased from 8% in 2022 to nearly 12% in 2024, moving steadily toward the Abuja Declaration target of 15%. Zambia’s role as host of the 75th WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Lusaka in 2025 further cements its leadership in shaping regional health policies, with a focus on health sovereignty, local pharmaceutical production, and sustainable health financing mechanisms.
Confronting Zambia’s Complex Health Challenges
Despite these gains, Zambia grapples with a multifaceted disease burden. Communicable diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and cholera remain prevalent. Simultaneously, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension are rising, increasingly affecting younger demographics. Additionally, neglected tropical diseases and injury-related health issues continue to strain the healthcare system. Addressing these intertwined challenges demands a comprehensive One Health strategy that integrates efforts across agriculture, environmental management, education, and health sectors.
Longstanding WHO-Zambia Collaboration
For more than 60 years, WHO has been a steadfast partner in Zambia’s health development journey. Collaborative initiatives have included enhancing disease surveillance and outbreak response, expanding immunization and child survival programs, improving maternal and child health services, strengthening laboratory capacities, and building a skilled health workforce. These efforts support Zambia’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage and are aligned with the National Health Strategic Plan through the WHO Country Cooperation Strategy.
Parliament’s Crucial Role in Health Governance
The Zambian Parliament continues to play a pivotal role in health governance by enacting legislation, conducting oversight, and approving budgets. Several important bills, including the ZAMMSA Amendment Bill, the National Health Services Bill, and the Tobacco Control Bill, are pending approval. These laws are expected to enhance regulatory frameworks and improve health service delivery nationwide.
Strengthening Collaboration and Financing for Health
Hon. Moyo expressed strong support for establishing bi-annual consultative meetings between WHO and Parliament. These forums would facilitate regular review of health priorities and performance, fostering greater transparency and coordination. Sustainable financing remains a top priority, with increased domestic investment, public-private partnerships, and strategic use of the Constituency Development Fund aimed at ensuring equitable access to health services. Emphasizing preventive measures, particularly for noncommunicable diseases, is recognized as a cost-effective approach that yields substantial long-term benefits compared to treatment alone.
A Shared Vision for a Healthier Zambia
The partnership between WHO and the Zambian Parliament embodies a collective commitment to health. Their joint goal is a Zambia where every child receives timely vaccinations, every mother experiences safe childbirth, and all communities have access to essential health services. Dr. Lasuba concludes, “Health forms the bedrock of Zambia’s development. Through strong leadership, vigilant oversight, and active community engagement, we can forge a resilient and healthier future for all Zambians.”
