Zambia Calls for United Action on Health Security at Regional Ministers Meeting in Malawi
Zambia has reiterated its unwavering commitment to regional health cooperation and solidarity, with Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Elijah Julaki Muchima calling for urgent collective action to combat cross-border health threats during the Fourth Session of the Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee (ReSCO) Meeting.
The event, hosted by the Government of Malawi under the leadership of Vice President Dr. Michael Biswick Usi, brought together health leaders from across the Southern African region to discuss the path forward for health security under the theme “One Region, One Health, One Future.”
Representing both Zambia and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) as Chair of its Governing Board, Dr. Muchima delivered a stirring keynote address.
He underscored the region’s shared vulnerability to outbreaks such as Ebola, Marburg, COVID-19, cholera, and Mpox, calling for unity in strengthening surveillance, preparedness, and response systems.
“We gather here not just as ministers, but as custodians of our people’s health,” Dr. Muchima said. “Let us forge an unbreakable bond, ignite a beacon of hope, and chart a path toward a healthier, more prosperous Africa for generations to come.”
He also expressed concern over declining health financing across the continent, citing a 70% drop in Official Development Assistance and continued failure by many nations to meet the Abuja target of allocating 15% of national budgets to health.
“Africa doesn’t need another wake-up call; what we need is action,” he stressed.
Dr. Muchima paid tribute to Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya, applauding his leadership in advancing the continent’s health agenda and resilience.
Closing his speech, the Zambian health minister invoked the words of Nelson Mandela, urging African leaders to rise as the generation that transforms the health landscape of the continent.
“Together, we are that generation—the turning point for Africa’s health security,” he declared.
The meeting concluded with renewed commitments to regional health integration, emphasizing solidarity as the foundation for a resilient, secure, and healthier Africa.
