Govt urges Zambians, health workers to safeguard drugs in hospitals

The government has called on all Zambians particularly the health workers to safeguard the drugs delivered in the health facilities.

The call was made when Health Minister, Sylvia Masebo, received bulk medicines from Egypt.

Masebo said in a speech read on her behalf by Permanent Secretary for Administration, Christopher Simoonga, on Monday that it was the responsibility of all Zambians and health workers to safeguard the drugs in the hospitals once they were delivered.

She implored health workers and citizens to work hand in hand in ensuring equitable distribution and building a healthier nation.

“The procurement of these medicines is a testimony of our government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare to all Zambians,” Masebo said.

She said the arrival and distribution of these commodities would mark a crucial step forward in the government’s pursuit of attracting universal health care coverage.

“These medicines and medical supplies have the potential to save lives, alleviate suffering and improve the overall health of our people,” Masebo said.

She noted that allocation to the health sector by government had increased from K1.2 billion in 2021 to K5 billion in 2024 budget.

Masebo stated that increment was remarkable and a clear demonstration of government’s commitment towards the attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs) 3 ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all. ‘leaving no one behind’.

The drugs were received from Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies (ZAMMSA) Central warehouse in Lusaka on Monday.

Contributed by Emmanuel Lungu

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