Zambia Commemorates World Health Day with Renewed Focus on Maternal and Newborn Health
Zambia has joined the global community in commemorating World Health Day, placing a strong spotlight on maternal and child health services as a critical pathway to national development. The 2025 observance is being held under the theme: “Access to quality maternal and newborn health services assures healthy beginnings and a hopeful future for all.”
Speaking during the national commemoration in Lusaka, Acting Minister of Health Hon. Douglas Syakalima underscored Zambia’s firm commitment to ensuring that no mother or newborn is left behind. He stated that maternal and child health remains central to the country’s broader healthcare strategy.
“When mothers receive quality healthcare, they’re empowered to give their children a healthy start. This creates a ripple effect, strengthening families and the nation at large,” said Mr. Syakalima.
He highlighted strides made in expanding prenatal and postnatal services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. He further noted ongoing government efforts to boost healthcare infrastructure, train medical personnel, and improve the availability of essential medicines.
Also present at the event was the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Clement Lasuba, who reaffirmed WHO’s support to Zambia in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of reducing maternal mortality to fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.
Dr. Lasuba emphasized the importance of high-impact interventions, including emergency obstetric and neonatal care, improved antenatal and postnatal services, and the training of midwives and community health workers.
UNFPA Country Representative Mr. Seth Broekman commended Zambia for its leadership in turning international commitments into action, particularly through the 8th National Development Plan (2022–2026), which targets improved reproductive health outcomes as a driver of economic growth.
While applauding progress in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates, Mr. Broekman called for enhanced investment in healthcare supply chains to ensure consistent delivery of life-saving medicines and reproductive health commodities to the most remote areas.
