Zambia Dictates Terms! $1.5 Billion Health Pact Signed With US, Sparking Debate!

Zambia's health sector has been a focal point of debate, particularly concerning foreign assistance and its implications for national sovereignty. Mr. Mwanza highlighted that despite employing over 22,000 health workers in the past five years, the UPND government's allocation to health averaged 10 percent of the national budget, falling short of the 15 percent Abuja Declaration target. He argued that Zambia could significantly expand its health workforce through increased domestic financing, suggesting that a mere 5 percent increase in the annual health budget could enable the employment of 50,000 health workers within five years. Mr. Mwanza cautioned against compromising Zambia’s health and economic sovereignty for promised assistance, urging citizens to meticulously examine the conditions and long-term consequences of any foreign agreement, and to read documents like America’s Health Global Strategy for themselves rather than relying solely on government statements.

Amidst these discussions, the government has faced accusations, particularly from figures like JJ Banda, Emmanuel Mwamba, and Lilly Mutambo, claiming that President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) had 'sold Zambia.' A key point of contention revolved around a 'dangerous clause' in the initial draft of a health agreement with America. This clause reportedly demanded that Zambia share blood samples, medical specimens, and private health data of every Zambian with America within five days of request, intending for this data to be used by ten American private companies to develop drugs. Countries like Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia reportedly refused this condition and consequently lost potential funding.

However, President Hichilema took a different approach. Instead of outright refusal, he engaged in prolonged negotiations. Health Minister Prof. Roma Chilengi notably refused to sign the initial draft, leading to stalled discussions for months. Ultimately, America completely removed the contentious clause. Minister Chilengi confirmed this, stating, “The Government will not be sharing any specimens with the United States because we removed all those aspects that raised concerns.” This outcome has been presented as a significant diplomatic achievement, showcasing the Zambian government’s ability to negotiate with major international partners and protect national interests.

Another major lie, according to government defenders, was the claim that Zambia’s copper or critical minerals were traded for health funding. Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe clarified at the signing ceremony in Lusaka that there were two separate memoranda of understanding: one on health and another on critical minerals. He explicitly stated that these had been 'decoupled,' meaning they were separated. The $1.5 billion health deal was signed, while the critical minerals deal remains under negotiation. The government's stance is that if America desires Zambia’s copper, it should be through investments in factories and job creation, particularly via initiatives like the Lobito Corridor, rather than through health agreements. President Hichilema has reportedly challenged Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to develop the Lobito Corridor into a 'jobs engine,' emphasizing negotiation for minerals should focus on creating employment and true sovereignty.

The $1.5 billion from America, combined with an additional $2.1 billion from the Zambian government, forms a total of $3.6 billion allocated over five years to the health sector. This substantial funding is earmarked for significant improvements, including the recruitment of 40,000 health workers (15,000 frontline and 25,000 community health workers). Furthermore, the funds will address issues at the Zambia Medical Supply Agency (ZAMMSA), which had previously faced drug theft scandals leading to America withdrawing $50 million. Following reforms and the dismissal of 150 workers, ZAMMSA has regained America's trust. The initiative is projected to save countless lives, particularly in remote areas like Kaoma, Shangombo, and Chama, where access to basic healthcare is often limited.

Beyond the health sector, the government has highlighted other achievements to counter the 'selling Zambia' narrative. These include a substantial increase in power capacity, reaching 4,722MW, almost double the peak demand of 2,400MW, with solar power alone growing from 178MW in 2024 to 1,027MW. The President’s target is 10,000MW by 2031 under the Grow Zambia Agenda. The government has also successfully restructured the national debt, paid retirees, and introduced free education for 2.6 million children, which is now enshrined in law. These efforts are presented as evidence of the government's commitment to national development and sovereignty without compromising national assets for foreign aid.