Opposition Democratic Union (DU) President, Ackim Njobvu, has called on government to urgently provide a clear roadmap on how it intends to finance the health sector following the recent withdrawal of 80% medical aid funding from the United States of America.
Mr. Njobvu described the partial withdrawal of medical assistance from the US government as a serious matter that requires immediate and uncompromising attention, warning that it poses a direct threat to the health and wellbeing of Zambians.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Njobvu cautioned that failure to cover the funding gap could lead to devastating consequences, including the potential collapse of the health system.
He stressed that the lives of many Zambians, particularly those living with HIV/AIDS who heavily relied on the now-cancelled support, are at risk.
“It is imperative that government outlines a sustainable financing plan to ensure continuity of essential health services,” said Mr. Njobvu.
He further urged government to begin investing in world-class medical facilities and services to reduce the costly trend of evacuating patients abroad for treatment.
By Cynthia Lupiya.
