Zambia Rolls Out Life-Saving Anti-Diarrhoea Kits in Schools
The Government of the Republic of Zambia, in partnership with the International Zinc Association (IZA) and Pharmanova Zambia Limited, has strengthened efforts to combat childhood diarrhoeal diseases through the school-based distribution of 50,000 Kit Ya Moyo treatment packs.
The donation, received through the Ministries of Health and Education, will be distributed to selected schools in Lusaka and Chongwe districts under the Government School Health Programme (SHP), with implementation support from Healthy Learners.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Permanent Secretary for Administration Mrs Joma T. Simuyi, representing Health Minister Hon. Elijah J. Muchima, MP, said diarrhoeal diseases remain a major public health concern, particularly in cholera-prone communities.
“When children fall ill, the impact goes beyond health. It affects school attendance, learning outcomes and overall development. This is why school-based health interventions are a critical part of our national response,” Mrs Simuyi said.
She noted that Government has intensified cholera preparedness and prevention measures nationwide, with schools playing a key role as centres for early intervention. The availability of Kit Ya Moyo within schools enables an immediate, life-saving response while referrals to health facilities are arranged.
Kit Ya Moyo, meaning “Kit of Life”, contains Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and a ten-day supply of zinc tablets – a globally recommended and cost-effective treatment for childhood diarrhoea. Zinc reduces the severity and duration of diarrhoea, boosts immunity and lowers the risk of future illness.
Mrs Simuyi said the initiative demonstrates the value of public–private partnerships, reinforcing the School Health Programme as the national platform for delivering essential health services to learners.
Speaking at the event, International Zinc Association Director of Sustainability, Mr Eric Van Gendersen, praised Zambia’s school-based delivery model and announced plans to showcase the programme internationally.
“In February 2026, Pharmanova will present Zambia’s school-based delivery model at the International Zinc & Zinc Oxide Conference. This approach, implemented through Healthy Learners, will be shared globally as an example of innovation, collaboration and impact,” he said.
He added that IZA was keen to expand its partnership with Zambia beyond the current programme.
Meanwhile, Pharmanova Zambia Limited Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mohammed Umar, highlighted the growth of Kit Ya Moyo since 2012, noting that it has evolved from a donor-funded pilot into a nationally available product.
“Kit Ya Moyo is now distributed in public health facilities under Ministry of Health branding, sold in supermarkets and pharmacies, and extended to schools through the Healthy Learners Programme. This milestone reflects the strength of local manufacturing and cross-sector collaboration,” Mr Umar said.
Through this initiative, the 50,000 kits will be fully integrated into routine school health activities, supporting Zambia’s broader goal of improving child health, learning outcomes and long-term development.
