WHO Lauds Health Sector Progress

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has praised the government for significant investment in healthcare, as the country prepares to host a major regional health summit later this year.

Health spending now accounts for 12% of the national budget. A substantial increase that brings the nation closer to the African Union's Abuja Declaration target of 15% of government expenditure.

During a meeting at State House yesterday, WHO Resident Representative Dr Clement Lasuba told President Hakainde Hichilema that the organisation recognises his administration's commitment to strengthening primary healthcare and improving health system financing.

"The World Health Organisation recognises your leadership's commitment to Primary Health Care and to strengthening the health system, including the recent strides in human resources for health and improved financing for the health sector," Dr Lasuba said.

The WHO official urged the government to continue to deepen domestic health investment, particularly following recent cuts to US government funding for health programmes across Africa. Dr Lasuba emphasised that building self-reliant health systems has become increasingly urgent as international aid becomes less predictable.

The meeting comes as Zambia prepares to host the WHO Regional Committee meeting in August. A significant diplomatic achievement that follows unanimous support from African member states.