A high level United States Government delegation visited Lusaka on 17 November to begin discussions on a new direction for U.S. health assistance to Zambia. The talks centered on a major grant package designed to strengthen Zambia’s health systems and services over the next five years.
The proposed framework sets clear funding levels and measurable performance targets. You can expect the plan to support Zambia’s shift from dependence on external aid to a nationally led and sustainably financed health system. The goal is to build a system that responds to the needs of Zambians and maintains long term stability.
The discussions were led by U.S. State Department Senior Health Advisor Brad Smith. Zambia’s Minister of Health Dr Elijah Muchima, Minister of Finance Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, and Minister of Defense Ambrose Lufuma took part in the meeting. U.S. Ambassador Michael Gonzales joined the talks, along with senior officials from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. State Department. Zambia was also represented by the Zambia National Public Health Institute Director General and Presidential Advisor on Health Professor Roma Chilengi and Director for Infectious Diseases Professor Mulenga.
The new approach builds on more than twenty years of cooperation between the two countries. Joint work has focused on HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, maternal and child mortality, and public health emergencies. The plan aims to protect these gains by strengthening laboratory networks, data systems, the health workforce, and medical interventions.
Both countries view this shift as a step toward long term sustainability and stronger national leadership in health service delivery. The talks in Lusaka signal a commitment to safeguard Zambia’s progress, improve resilience, and support regional and global health security.