The Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) and the United States Government (USG) are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on health assistance, marking a major step in their long-standing collaboration in the health sector. The proposed MoU will establish a performance-based, co-financed partnership aimed at strengthening Zambia’s health system and supporting the country’s transition toward self-reliance by 2030. Central to the agreement is a commitment to sustain essential health services, protect health gains made over the years, and expand access to quality care for all Zambians. The partnership will focus on HIV, Tuberculosis, Malaria, and Maternal and Child Health services, while building the capacity of national systems to manage these programs independently over time.
Under the MoU, Zambia will gradually take full ownership of key health system functions, including supply chains, workforce management, and digital health platforms. Increased domestic financing will underpin the sustainability of the health sector as external support gradually decreases. The agreement is also designed to strengthen disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, and health data systems, ensuring that public health decisions are informed by accurate, timely information. By integrating these elements, the MoU aims to build a resilient and self-sustaining health system capable of meeting future challenges.
Key areas of cooperation include disease surveillance and outbreak response, where the MoU will enhance Zambia’s ability to detect and respond to outbreaks. Over 100 field epidemiologists will be trained, and rapid response mechanisms will be strengthened. The partnership will also establish a nationally connected network of high-quality laboratories, improving biosafety, sample transportation, and skilled personnel deployment. In addition, Zambia will progressively increase its financial contribution to ensure these systems are fully domestically supported by 2030.
The MoU prioritizes a secure and transparent supply chain for medicines and medical supplies, leveraging national systems such as the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA). Investments will cover procurement, storage, distribution, and tracking of essential health commodities nationwide. Human resources for health remain a cornerstone of the partnership, with the government expected to maintain a minimum of 40,000 frontline health workers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, epidemiologists, and community health volunteers. Formal integration of community-based health workers into the national system will strengthen service delivery at the community level.
Health data and digital systems will be enhanced through interoperable platforms, including electronic medical records, laboratory information systems, logistics management tools, and a national health data warehouse. The MoU will support HIV prevention and treatment, malaria and tuberculosis control, and broader global health security efforts. Implementation will be overseen by a Joint Health Cooperation Steering Committee, linking co-investment to performance. Zambia’s annual health expenditure is projected to grow from approximately USD 628 million in 2026 to over USD 1 billion by 2030, ensuring continuity of services as external funding decreases.
The proposed MoU demonstrates the shared commitment of Zambia and the United States to build a sustainable, resilient, and nationally led health system. By strengthening infrastructure, workforce, supply chains, and data systems, the partnership aims to secure lasting health gains for all Zambians. This collaboration is expected to ensure that quality health services remain accessible, well-managed, and locally owned well beyond external assistance.