President Hichilema Opens 75th WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Lusaka
President Hakainde Hichilema has officially opened the 75th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, with a call for unity, innovation, and self-reliance in advancing Africa’s health systems.
In his keynote address, President Hichilema welcomed delegates from across Africa and beyond, noting Zambia’s pride in hosting the landmark gathering. He underscored the importance of health diplomacy, regional manufacturing of health commodities, and harmonised public health regulations as critical pillars for Africa’s long-term progress.
Highlighting Zambia’s achievements, the President pointed to an increase in the health budget to 12% of the national allocation, the recruitment of 20,000 health workers in the past three years, expansion of health infrastructure, and the implementation of a minimum package of essential health services.
He also reaffirmed Zambia’s role as African Union and WHO Global Cholera Control Champion, pledging to mobilise resources towards eliminating cholera.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended Zambia for achieving a 14% reduction in maternal mortality since 2020 and for prioritising financing, workforce development, and digital health.
WHO Africa Regional Director Prof Mohamed Janabi hailed Zambia’s progress as a “blueprint for regional advancement”, while Health Minister Dr Elijah Muchima stressed the importance of regional and global collaboration, noting that no country can overcome health challenges in isolation.
The session will deliberate on universal health coverage, health security and emergency preparedness, maternal and child health, malaria, and non-communicable diseases.
Hosting the WHO Regional Committee marks a significant milestone for Zambia, underscoring the nation’s growing leadership in health policy and its commitment to building “a healthier Africa together.”
This statement was issued by Georgia Mutale Chimombo, Principal Public Relations Officer and Spokesperson, Ministry of Health – Zambia.
