Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) president Dr Kaumba Tolopu has urged the country to prioritise home-grown solutions and critically assess financing models for the health sector in light of the changing funding landscape. He warned that without sustainable financing, the goal of achieving universal health coverage will remain out of reach.
Speaking during the 61st Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting held in Livingstone on Friday, Dr Tolopu said that with strategic investment, ethical leadership, and collaborative innovation, Zambia can make universal health coverage a reality. He noted that the conference theme, “Sustainable Healthcare Financing as a Cornerstone Towards Universal Health Coverage,” was timely and directly addressed both the country’s aspirations and the professional duties of healthcare providers.
“As medical professionals, we stand at the intersection of science, service, and policy,” Dr Tolopu said. “We have witnessed the triumphs of a well-supported health system, and we have equally seen the strain when resources are inadequate.”
Dr Tolopu emphasised that the country must shift from heavy dependence on external funding to building resilient, locally driven financing systems. He highlighted the need for policies that channel resources efficiently, reduce wastage, and strengthen accountability across all levels of the health sector.
He stressed that health financing reforms should ensure that no Zambian is denied access to essential healthcare services due to cost. He called for stronger partnerships between government, the private sector, and civil society to create innovative funding mechanisms that can withstand economic shocks.
Dr Tolopu also pointed out that universal health coverage requires more than just increased funding. It demands investment in human capital, modern infrastructure, medical research, and technology that can improve efficiency and patient outcomes.
Delegates at the conference discussed strategies to broaden the health sector’s revenue base, including exploring public health insurance, expanding domestic tax contributions, and enhancing efficiency in resource allocation. They also examined global best practices that can be adapted to Zambia’s context without undermining local realities.
Dr Tolopu concluded by reiterating that achieving universal health coverage in Zambia is possible if the country commits to sustainable financing, transparent governance, and innovative approaches that are rooted in the needs of its people. He urged all stakeholders to work together, saying the health and future of the nation depend on collective action.