In brief
In light of allegations of systematic theft of US-donated medicines, Zambia's Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe has warned foreign diplomats to refrain from addressing government issues through the media. This response follows US Ambassador Michael Gonzales's announcement of a $50 million cut in health aid due to unaddressed corruption concerning the theft of life-saving drugs.
Zambia's Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe has issued a stern warning to diplomats, urging them to address their concerns through proper diplomatic channels, rather than via the media. This statement comes in the wake of revelations by US Ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzales, who raised alarms about systematic theft of drugs meant for health care in the country.Ambassador Gonzales held a press conference last week, disclosing that the US would be cutting $50 million in health aid to Zambia due to the theft of critical medications. His decision to go public followed over 30 unsuccessful meetings with senior Zambian officials regarding these allegations. Haimbe's remarks appeared directed towards Gonzales, emphasizing that media confrontation undermines diplomatic norms. He maintained that Zambia retains a willingness to engage on matters of concern through established diplomatic avenues.Last April, the US embassy presented its findings regarding alleged corruption to Zambian officials, along with offers for collaboration aimed at preventing further theft and pursuing justice against involved parties. However, they reported little progress from Zambian authorities since then. Responding to the ongoing crisis, Zambia's Home Affairs Minister Jacob Mwiimbu confirmed that a forensic audit into the alleged misconduct had been completed and shared with security agencies for further investigation. In a nationwide crackdown, approximately 75 individuals have been arrested, with over 400 health facilities examined for alleged wrongdoing. Mwiimbu assured the public that accountability measures would be rigorous, declaring that "no sacred cows" would escape scrutiny in this initiative.While the health minister, Elijah Muchima, acknowledged that the issue of drug theft predates the current administration, he noted that several officials had been dismissed as a result of the findings. To address these issues, an advanced digital tracking system for medicine supplies has been implemented to monitor health resources closely.The impact of the US aid cut is projected to affect crucial treatments for malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. Nevertheless, Muchima reassured the public by stating that sufficient stock of essential medications is available, and there is "no immediate risk of shortages." Gonzales's recent measures were communicated to be distinct from a broader aid freeze enacted by former President Trump, which has also impacted health initiatives across Africa.According to the US embassy, American assistance constitutes roughly a third of Zambia's public health spending, further complicating the dynamics surrounding drug availability and health care provision in the nation.
