Government Plans to Send Health Workers Abroad to Help Neighbours

The government is in early talks with countries facing medical staff shortages to send its healthcare workers abroad, the health minister has announced.

Speaking at the official opening of a new hospital wing at CFB Medical Centre, Health Minister Dr Elijah Muchima revealed plans to recruit 2,000 healthcare workers this year, including doctors, nurses, midwives and laboratory technicians.

"We are doing our best to negotiate with other countries that have shortages of medical personnel so that we can send them there," Dr Muchima said.

The minister emphasised that this expansion has not only enhanced healthcare delivery but also advanced Zambia's broader economic development objectives by creating jobs and developing skills within the health sector.

Over the past three years, the government has recruited 20,160 healthcare workers - a record-breaking achievement representing the largest health sector recruitment drive since independence.

This milestone demonstrates the government's steadfast commitment to strengthening the healthcare system and ensuring quality healthcare delivery for the entire population.

The move comes as many countries worldwide face acute shortages of medical professionals, creating potential opportunities for nations with surplus healthcare workers.