Zambia calls for stronger surveillance, financing to tackle health priorities

The Zambian government has called for robust surveillance, continued investments, and sustained efforts in addressing critical health sector priorities, including mental health disorders and the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.

Minister of Health, Dr. Elijah Muchima, said Zambia had made notable health gains in recent years, including a reduction in the maternal mortality ratio from 252 per 100,000 live births in 2021 to 187, and a drop in neonatal mortality from 24 to 17 per 1,000 live births.

Speaking at the 78th World Health Assembly on May 19, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, Dr. Muchima noted that Zambia had surpassed the UNAIDS 95-95-95 HIV targets, achieving 97-98-96, placing the country on track for HIV epidemic control.

He also reported progress in reducing malaria incidence, which declined from 348 per 1,000 population in 2021 to 304 in 2024.

However, Muchima expressed concern over the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cancers, and said the government had prioritized the elimination of cervical cancer by improving diagnostic capacity and integrating NCD care into primary healthcare.

“Despite the gains, mental health and antimicrobial resistance remain pressing challenges that require sustained investment and strong surveillance systems,” he said.

Muchima emphasized that climate change continued to worsen health challenges and called for sustainable and equitable financing mechanisms.

“To address these multifaceted issues, we seek innovative domestic financing solutions and call on global partners to provide resilient, predictable support aligned with national priorities,” he said.

He urged investment in digital health platforms, expansion of primary healthcare, and a stronger National Health Insurance system to accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Additionally, he called for climate action within the health sector, advocating for the integration of climate resilience in health planning and cross-sectoral collaboration.

“We further urge this Assembly to champion transparent WHO investments and a fundamental shift toward equitable resource distribution, prioritizing regions with the greatest need,” Muchima said.

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