Dr. Lungu Urges Unity as U.S. AID Withdrawal Hits Zambia’s Health Sector
Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has called on Zambians to remain united and vigilant following the United States’ decision to suspend health-sector aid, attributing the move to systemic corruption under the current administration.
Delivering a national address, Dr. Lungu condemned revelations by U.S. Ambassador Michael Gonzales that prompted Washington to halt funds for Zambia’s fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.
He warned that ordinary citizens will bear the brunt of potential drug shortages and urged all stakeholders not to take donor goodwill for granted.
“These revelations make very sad reading. Our health sector now faces enormous challenges because the goodwill of our cooperating partners must never be taken for granted—or abused,” Dr. Lungu said.
Recalling the successes of past partnerships with PEPFAR and the Global Fund during his Patriotic Front tenure, Dr. Lungu highlighted milestones such as:
- Life-saving antiretroviral access for millions of Zambians under the “Test and Treat” HIV approach.
- Establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Infectious Diseases to bolster TB control.
- Creation of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) to streamline drug procurement and distribution.
He contrasted these achievements with what he described as “the shocking scale of theft and corruption” exposed by the U.S. Embassy, calling it “a slap in the face to every Zambian.”
Turning his attention to President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, Dr. Lungu insisted the period of alleged mismanagement—from late 2021 to 2023—falls squarely under the current government’s watch.
“Your government has consistently refused to accept responsibility, choosing instead to blame the PF or past administrations. But this is not a time for finger-pointing. You, good sir, must take responsibility,” he said.
Dr. Lungu warned that the loss of credibility and strained international relationships constitute a “national embarrassment,” undermining Zambia’s governance and threatening citizens’ health.
Despite the criticism, he appealed for collective action and faith, urging Zambians to look beyond political divisions: “No government is without fault. The key in all our efforts was to keep a keen eye on corruption in the supply chain. Now our people will suffer. If you’re not infected, you’re affected.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the American people for their long-standing support and optimism for renewed engagement once governance issues are addressed. “Nothing lasts forever. This misfortune and suffering are only a passing phase. Peace and joy will soon come. May God bless our great nation.”
