Group calls for action on systemic public theft following US health aid freeze

The Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has expressed concern over the United States government’s decision to suspend approximately K1.5 billion in aid to Zambia’s Ministry of Health, citing systemic theft and lack of accountability.

In a statement issued on Thursday, AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma claimed that the failure by oversight institutions—such as the Office of the Auditor General and the Zambia Police—to act on the widespread theft of essential medicines was deeply troubling.

“AIPAC urges President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration to hold closed-door discussions with the U.S. Embassy to address the concerns raised by the Ambassador,” Ngoma said.

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He added that the Zambian government’s continued failure to take decisive action against individuals implicated in the theft of medical supplies meant for public hospitals was disappointing.

Ngoma further called on President Hichilema to “clean up” the Ministry of Health without fear or favour by suspending officials allegedly involved in corruption.

“Civil servants at the Ministry must remember that their actions have real-life consequences—harming the very citizens they are mandated to serve, including their own families,” he said.

The U.S. government reportedly suspended the health sector funding following revelations of unpunished public theft, calling for stronger institutional accountability and reforms at the Ministry of Health.

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