Zambia Invests K132 Million to Improve Dialysis and Kidney Care Services
The Government of Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to quality kidney care services across the country as part of efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare.
Through the Ministry of Health Zambia, the government says it has prioritised the needs of people living with kidney disease, recognising the growing burden the condition places on individuals, families and the healthcare system.
Speaking during the commemoration of World Kidney Day at the University Teaching Hospital, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Kennedy Lishimpi announced that the government has committed more than K132 million towards the procurement of renal consumables.
Dr Lishimpi said the investment will help ensure that life-saving dialysis services remain available to patients who depend on them.
“This investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening specialised healthcare services and improving the quality of life for people living with kidney disease,” he said.
He added that the government will continue strengthening preventive health programmes and community-based initiatives aimed at promoting early screening and raising awareness about non-communicable diseases, including kidney disease.
Dr Lishimpi also called on healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, community leaders, the private sector and members of the public to participate in activities organised for this year’s commemoration. These include awareness campaigns, educational events, public walks, illumination of landmarks in campaign colours, blood pressure screening and serum creatinine testing among at-risk populations.
Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Kidney Foundation of Zambia Thomson Fungwa commended the government for progress made in improving kidney care services.
Mr Fungwa highlighted government support for kidney transplants, improved access to treatment and the availability of immunosuppressant medicines, which he said have helped ease the burden on patients.
He also praised the partnership between the National Health Insurance Management Authority and dialysis centres in accredited facilities across provincial centres, including Lusaka and the Copperbelt Province, describing the initiative as a “game changer” for many patients.
Mr Fungwa further called for the establishment of at least one private kidney care facility in each provincial centre and urged the government to ensure the consistent availability of medical consumables and reagents through the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency.
He emphasised the importance of prioritising prevention, early detection and effective management in order to reduce the burden of kidney disease and safeguard the health of future generations in Zambia.
