Smart Zambia Institute, Ministry of Health and UNDP Partner to Digitally Transform Zambia’s Health Facilities
The Ministry of Health has formalised a partnership with the Smart Zambia Institute (SZI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the signing of a Letter of Agreement (LOA), aimed at strengthening digital connectivity across Zambia’s health facilities under the Smart Health Systems (SHS) project.
The collaboration seeks to enhance supply chain visibility, cold chain reliability, and cybersecurity, while supporting the Government’s broader efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage and advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 7, and 9.
“This partnership aligns with our national strategies for information systems, supply chain visibility, cold chain reliability, and continuous quality improvement,” said Mrs Joma T. Simuyi, Permanent Secretary Administration, Ministry of Health. “It is designed to complement existing efforts, prioritising interoperability to reinforce a coherent approach across the health sector. Cybersecurity and data protection are integral to this initiative.”
Implemented by UNDP in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and supported by the Global Fund, the SHS project combines solar energy, digital technology, and climate-smart infrastructure to improve healthcare delivery in rural and peri-urban areas. The integration of high-speed internet, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and an eVIN Track and Trace system will enable digitised management of medicines and medical supplies, while monitoring temperature, security, waste, water, and air quality.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Office of the National Coordinator of the Smart Zambia Institute, Mr Percy Chinyama, National Coordinator of SZI, highlighted the importance of the partnership. “Despite many successes, visible gaps remain, particularly in rural healthcare. Our mandate is to provide reliable, secure, and integrated digital government services, driving Zambia towards an accelerated digital economy.”
Dr Wakiaga, representing UNDP, emphasised the people-centred focus of the project. “Beyond frameworks and goals, this initiative is ultimately about people. It ensures that children in rural communities have the same chance to survive illnesses, women have access to crucial services, and health workers are equipped with the tools they need, regardless of location.”
The SHS project builds on the Solar for Health programme, which has already powered over 400 health facilities across Zambia. The next phase expands the initiative, ensuring continuous, quality healthcare services in off-grid or climate-affected regions, while supporting Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan and vision for a digital and inclusive economy.
