A Zambian delegation, led by the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, MP, and represented by the Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, participated in the 76th East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) Ministers Conference. The event took place in Ezulwini, Kingdom of Eswatini, bringing together health leaders from across the region to discuss strategies for improving public health outcomes. Zambia’s participation reflects its commitment to regional cooperation in healthcare policy, financing, and service delivery. The conference provided a platform for sharing best practices and coordinating responses to emerging health challenges.
The Zambian delegation included key health officials who play critical roles in the country’s healthcare system. Dr. Lishimpi was accompanied by Mr. Azell Banda, Director of Finance, Mr. Arnold Mulenga, Chief Planner for Healthcare Financing, Dr. Tapalu Musonda, Chief Emergency Officer, and Andrew H. Phiri, the Ministry’s Editor. Their presence ensured that Zambia’s perspectives on healthcare policy, financing, and emergency preparedness were well represented. The delegation also engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening cross-border health collaboration and improving health systems in line with regional priorities.
During the conference, Zambia emphasized the importance of effective healthcare financing and strategic planning to achieve sustainable health outcomes. Delegates highlighted the role of emergency preparedness in responding to health crises, particularly in light of recent regional outbreaks. The meeting also focused on collaborative approaches to tackling communicable and non-communicable diseases. Zambia’s participation reinforced its commitment to the ECSA-HC vision of improving the health and well-being of populations across East, Central, and Southern Africa.
The 76th ECSA-HC Ministers Conference provided Zambia with an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and exchange knowledge with other member states. Discussions underscored the need for coordinated regional strategies to address health inequities, improve service delivery, and optimize resource allocation. Zambia’s delegation contributed insights from its national programs and shared lessons from ongoing initiatives in healthcare financing and emergency response. The event reaffirmed Zambia’s active role in shaping regional health policies and fostering collaboration across borders.
Zambia’s engagement at the conference highlights its dedication to advancing regional health priorities and promoting sustainable health systems. By participating in these high-level discussions, the country continues to strengthen its leadership in regional health initiatives. The delegation’s contributions demonstrated Zambia’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes, building resilient health systems, and supporting the collective vision of a healthier East, Central, and Southern Africa.