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The Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has urged the government to prioritise the health sector by significantly increasing the budget allocation from 10.7 percent in 2025 to 15 percent in 2026.
Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, is expected to present the 2026 national budget to Parliament on September, 26, 2025.
MQHZ Director General, Dr. Quincy Mwabu, in a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday noted that the health sector was facing unprecedented challenges that require urgent attention and investments.
Mwabu stated that this was to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to the Zambian people, noting that the recent reduction in support from key international partners had further strained the sector.
He said notably, the United Kingdom had reduced funding to Zambia’s health sector, while the United States had cut $50 million in aid to the sector.
Additionally, UNAIDS has scaled back its presence in Zambia, reducing its operational capacity in the country.
“These developments have created a substantial funding gap that threatens the continuity of essential health services,” Mwabu said.
He expressed concern that, without adequate funding, the gains made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and other diseases may be reversed, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates.
Mwabu called on the government to allocate at least 15 percent of the national budget to the health sector, in line with the Abuja Declaration.
“This increased allocation should prioritize critical areas that have been severely impacted by inadequate funding,” he emphasised.
Mwabu noted that the health sector was currently grappling with critical shortages of healthcare personnel, and MQHZ strongly believes that adequate funding was needed to recruit more doctors, nurses and other critical staff.
Additionally, investment in modern medical equipment is essential to ensure that healthcare workers have the necessary tools to provide quality care for improved health outcomes.
“Furthermore, the government should prioritize funding for the procurement of essential medicines and medical supplies to prevent stock-outs and ensure a stable supply chain,” he said.
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Mwabu stated that health infrastructure development was also crucial, and funding should be allocated for upgrading health facilities and investing in emergency preparedness and response systems.
He said programs focusing on reproductive, maternal, neonatal, child and adolescent health, including family planning services, maternal care and immunization programs, should also receive priority funding.
“The consequences of inaction will be severe. Without sufficient funding, Zambia’s health sector will struggle to provide quality healthcare, leading to decreased life expectancy and a significant burden on the economy,” Mwabu stated.
He urged the government to take immediate action to address pressing challenges in the health sector and prioritize the well-being of the Zambian people.
Mwabu said by investing in the health sector, the government could improve healthcare outcomes, reduce morbidity and mortality rates, ensuring that Zambians received the quality care they deserved.
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