WHO Donates K400,000 in Ebola Supplies to Zambia
Zambia's defences against Ebola have received a significant boost, with the World Health Organization (WHO) handing over preparedness supplies valued at more than K400,000. The donation is intended to sharpen the country's ability to prevent, detect, and respond to Ebola and other viral haemorrhagic fevers at a time when outbreaks persist in neighbouring states.
According to WHO Country Representative Dr Clement Lasuba, the timing of the donation is significant. With the Bundibugyo Virus Disease outbreak still active, he warned that the threat to public health extends well beyond any single country's borders and remains a regional concern.
Dr Lasuba made his remarks at the official handover, where he was careful to point out that Zambia has yet to record a single case of Ebola. Even so, he argued, that should not breed complacency. The volume of people crossing borders, together with the country's trade ties to affected nations, means preparedness must remain a priority.
Accepting the supplies on behalf of Government, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination Dr George Sinyangwe described the gesture as a welcome and well-timed contribution to the country's outbreak readiness.
The handover speaks to the enduring partnership between Zambia and the WHO, and to a common resolve to keep communities protected. By investing in readiness now, both sides are working to strengthen health security across the region and shield citizens from the dangers posed by disease that knows no borders.