Zambia Unveils National PEN-Plus Plan to Combat Rise in Non-Communicable Diseases
The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), has launched the 2025–2026 PEN-Plus National Operational Plan, curriculum, and treatment guidelines aimed at improving care for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) across the country.
The official launch, held in Lusaka, was presided over by Health Minister Dr. Elijah Muchima, represented by Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi.
The event marked a significant milestone in Zambia’s healthcare transformation, as the country shifts focus from a system predominantly addressing infectious diseases to one that also robustly tackles the growing burden of NCDs such as diabetes, heart disease, and chronic respiratory conditions.
“In the past, our health challenges were largely malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. But today, we are seeing a rise in NCDs, which now account for nearly 29% of all deaths in Zambia,” stated Dr. Lishimpi on behalf of the Minister.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring all citizens—regardless of location or income—can access affordable, quality healthcare close to home.
The PEN-Plus initiative offers a structured roadmap to decentralize and enhance care for chronic NCDs by improving access to treatment, upgrading health worker skills, and ensuring essential medicines and diagnostic tools are readily available at health facilities.
CIDRZ representative Dr. Carolyn Bolton revealed that the initiative began with two pilot clinics—Matero First Level Hospital in Lusaka and Mwachisompola First Level Hospital in Chibombo—which have now evolved into national training hubs. In 2024, Kapiri Mposhi District Hospital became the third PEN-Plus site, further strengthening the initiative’s reach.
“These facilities are not just providing care, they are training healthcare workers and expanding our capacity to manage complex NCDs at the district level,” said Dr. Bolton. “This program will greatly enhance Zambia’s ability to respond to NCDs and improve outcomes for thousands of patients.”
