President Hichilema Unveils US$31 Million Cancer Treatment Upgrade
President Hakainde Hichilema has commissioned advanced cancer treatment equipment at the Cancer Diseases Hospital (CDH) in Lusaka, describing the investment as a major milestone in Zambia's ambition to become a regional hub for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
President Hichilema said Zambia is now the third country in Africa, after South Africa and Egypt, to install the advanced cancer treatment technology, positioning the country among the continent's leaders in specialised oncology services.
The President made the remarks during the commissioning of the newly refurbished radiotherapy and imaging unit, a US$31 million project financed entirely through local resources. He said the facility will significantly improve access to specialised cancer care, allowing more patients to receive treatment within Zambia instead of travelling abroad, including to India.
He said the commissioning fulfils a commitment made by his administration to strengthen cancer treatment services after taking office, adding that investing in healthcare remains a priority despite financial constraints because quality health services are essential to national development.
President Hichilema announced that Government is also constructing two additional Cancer Diseases Hospitals in Ndola and Livingstone to expand access to specialised cancer treatment across the country.
He further revealed plans for a Medical Tourism City near Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, which will accommodate specialised medical centres aimed at attracting both local and international patients.
In strengthening emergency healthcare services, the President disclosed that Government has acquired 150 additional ambulances to complement the 156 previously procured.
He also announced the procurement of 2,000 neonatal resuscitators, which will be distributed to health facilities nationwide to improve newborn survival rates.
President Hichilema said the decision to supply the equipment was inspired by an incident he witnessed while in opposition in Eastern Province, where a newborn baby died because a health facility lacked a neonatal resuscitator.
He urged public service workers to place national interests above personal considerations and ensure public resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of all citizens.
The President also appealed to Zambians to safeguard the country's development by voting for him and the United Party for National Development (UPND) in the General Election scheduled for 13 August 2026.
Meanwhile, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa said the commissioning of the upgraded facility demonstrates Government's continued commitment to improving healthcare services under President Hichilema's administration.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Presidential Delivery Unit Head Kusobile Kamwambi, Mr Kangwa said Government has expanded digital health services, strengthened maternal healthcare and increased access to specialised medical services across the country.