Health Minister says public health is showing positive progression despite the drought

Speaking on 28th May at the Seventy-Seventh World Health Assembly, Sylvia Masebo, Minister for Health, said that the public health of Zambia is making progress, despite the concerning effects the country’s drought has had on food security, access to clean and safe water, and health service delivery.

Masebo attributed the resilience of the health sector to the political determination and strength of President Hichilema. The government increased the budget allocation to the health sector from 7 per cent in 2021, to 11.8 percent in 2024.

The World Health Organisation has gathered data which reflects the consistent and encouraging progress in healthcare over recent decades in Zambia. For example, the healthy life expectancy at birth has improved from 39 years in 2000 to 53 years in 2021.

In April, the government commissioned the Chifubu Level 1 hospital in Ndola, as well as opening an aeromedical centre. By opening new facilities, the government is able to provide quality health services for Zambians, and simultaneously create new jobs in local communities.