Dr. Muchima Calls for Increased Investment in NHIMA at Washington D.C. Briefing
Zambia’s Minister of Health, Honourable Dr. Elijah Muchima, has called for stronger investment in the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) to ensure broader health coverage for all citizens, especially the poor and vulnerable.
Speaking during a briefing with the Zambian delegation at the residence of Zambia’s Ambassador to the USA, Dr. Chibamba Kanyama, Dr. Muchima praised the Ministry of Finance and National Planning for its steadfast support to the health sector in the face of declining donor aid.
Dr. Muchima highlighted key outcomes from his participation in the 2025 Spring Meetings, where he took part in a high-level dialogue on sustainable health financing in Africa organized by the AfroChampions Initiative. The forum, attended by health leaders and policymakers across the continent, focused on practical strategies and partnerships to strengthen Africa’s health systems amid tightening fiscal environments.
“We must invest in NHIMA, reduce wastage, and extend coverage to the poor and vulnerable,” Dr. Muchima urged, emphasizing that sustainable health financing is critical for Zambia’s future, especially under current fiscal constraints.
He noted that while Zambia faces significant budgetary pressures, the prudent use of domestic resources remains paramount. Dr. Muchima reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens unable to afford NHIMA contributions receive necessary support to access healthcare services.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Chibamba Kanyama reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to continued engagement with partners and stakeholders to bolster Zambia’s health sector, despite reductions in external financial support.
“The Mission will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen collaborations that support our health priorities back home,” Ambassador Kanyama said.
The call for renewed investment in NHIMA comes at a critical time, as Zambia seeks to build a resilient and inclusive health system capable of delivering quality care to all its people.
