PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
New York, 10.04.25 – Minister of Health, Hon. Elijah Muchima, MP, has called for increased international and domestic funding to strengthen Zambia’s healthcare system.
During a bilateral meeting with Plan International held on the sidelines of the 58th session of the Commission on Population and Development in New York, the Minister emphasised that under the leadership of the President, Mr. President Hakainde Hichilema, the Zambian government, is fully committed to ensuring that no lives are lost due to lack of medical assistance.
“With or without assistance, nobody should die,” declared Hon. Muchima.
He said Zambia, under its current leadership, values every coin and invests it wisely to improve the lives of the people.
The Minister highlighted that health remains one of the government’s top priorities, given its critical role in national development and human welfare.
The Hon. Muchima stressed that strong leadership is key to driving progress in healthcare and other essential sectors.
He underscored that Zambia has vibrant leadership deeply committed to addressing critical issues, including education and social welfare, and health issues.
The Minister alongside his Permanent Secretary – Technical, Dr Kennedy Lisimpi, Prof Lloyd Mulenga, Director of Infectious Diseases and
Dr Kakungu Simpungwe, Acting Director Public Health and Research, have engaged with development partners, donor agencies to advocate for sustainable health financing.
The discussions focused on strategies to enhance healthcare access, improve infrastructure, and ensure that no Zambian is left behind in the pursuit of universal health coverage.
And Plan International Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) policy and advocacy manager, Ms. Bekky Taylor said her organisation is committed to championing girls and gender issues in the global landscape and would make sure that investment is done correctly. The Plan International delegation was led by
Ms. Kathleen Sherwin, Chief Strategy and Engagement.
Issued by:
Namatama Njekwa
First Secretary Press and Public Relations
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Zambia to the United Nations
Email: Namatama.Njekwa@grz.gov.zm
