President Hichilema Celebrates Dramatic Improvement in Medicine Stocks

President Hakainde Hichilema has announced a remarkable transformation in the country's healthcare system, with drug availability at public health facilities surging from 46% in 2021 to 80.5% in 2025. 

Speaking at a presidential stock take meeting on drug accessibility at State House, President Hichilema credited his New Dawn Administration's increased funding for the dramatic improvement. Government spending on pharmaceuticals and medical supplies has more than tripled, rising from K1.4 billion in 2021 to K4.9 billion in 2025, according to Dr. George Sinyangwe, the Ministry of Health's Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination.

The healthcare improvements reflect President Hichilema's personal commitment to ensuring quality medical care for all Zambians. He recalled a 2018 visit to a health centre in Chief Nyanje, where he witnessed a premature infant die due to the absence of an incubator, an experience that reinforced his determination to improve healthcare infrastructure.

"No mother or child should lose their life due to a lack of essential medical resources," the president stated, emphasising his administration's focus on maternal and child health.

Beyond medicine availability, President Hichilema has outlined a comprehensive approach to healthcare improvement. He has instructed the Ministry of Local Government, Housing, and Rural Development to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to address water supply challenges in rural health centres, while also emphasising the importance of equipping facilities with diagnostic tools.

The president urged public servants to maintain their dedication, stating, "We are here to serve 20 million Zambians who pay our salaries. Never forget who we work for."

Dr. Sinyangwe reported that the country now has an adequate supply of medicines, marking a significant milestone in the government's healthcare transformation agenda. The administration has also strengthened measures to protect medical supplies, with President Hichilema emphasising that theft of medicines undermines public health and will face serious consequences.