Health Minister Advocates for Increased Domestic Financing for Reproductive Health Services
Zambia’s Health Minister, Sylvia Masebo, has emphasized the need to boost domestic funding for reproductive health services during a meeting with Members of Parliament in Lusaka.
The gathering, focused on reproductive health services, was organized with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Minister Masebo highlighted that President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has prioritized healthcare and is committed to enhancing the quality of health services to promote nationwide social and economic development.
She stressed the significance of sexual and reproductive health, underscoring its priority in the 8th National Development Plan.
The Health Minister articulated the government’s goal to expedite progress in improving Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health, and Nutrition indicators.
To achieve this, her ministry has developed an investment case for 2022-2024, seeking to address indicators falling behind the 2030 sustainable targets.
The proposed investment case requires resources amounting to USD $176,156,150.
Minister Masebo urged Members of Parliament to actively engage in reproductive health programming and play a role in educating communities on the importance of accessing available reproductive health services.
She emphasized that reproductive health is crucial for overall national development.
In response, Joseph Munsange, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, Community Development, and Social Services, affirmed the committee’s commitment to monitoring Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights matters.
He highlighted the dedication of Members of Parliament to these issues, evident through the active Parliamentary Caucus on Sexual Reproductive Health and Right (SRHR) and Life Skills and Health Education (LSHE) established in 2022.
The meeting served as a platform to reinforce the government’s commitment to advancing reproductive health services and the active involvement of parliamentarians in promoting the well-being of Zambia’s citizens.
