ZAMMSA Procures Medicines for Ndola Cancer Hospital

The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) has begun procuring medicines and equipment for the new Cancer Diseases Hospital in Ndola, which is currently under construction.

ZAMMSA Director General Dr Liyoka Liyoka said the agency is developing a robust programme to guarantee that specialised medicines are readily available across the country's health facilities. He explained that the initiative forms part of a wider effort to ensure that patients, particularly those requiring advanced treatment such as cancer care, can access the medicines they need close to home.

Dr Liyoka added that strengthened relationships with stakeholders have played a significant role in improving drug availability nationwide. He said the agency remains firmly committed to its goal of achieving 100 percent supply coverage, describing consistent access to medicines as central to delivering quality healthcare for all Zambians.

The new facility in Ndola is expected to ease pressure on the Cancer Diseases Hospital in Lusaka, which has long served as the country's primary centre for cancer treatment. Once operational, it will bring specialised care closer to communities across the Copperbelt and northern regions.

Copperbelt Health Director Dr Charles Mwinuna commended ZAMMSA for its work in maintaining a steady supply of medicines throughout the province. He disclosed that drug availability across the 450 health facilities on the Copperbelt currently stands at between 82 and 96 percent, a marked improvement that reflects the agency's ongoing commitment to reliable and equitable healthcare delivery.