The United States has announced a significant cut of $50 million in annual aid to Zambia’s health sector due to the country’s failure to address widespread and systematic theft of donated medicines and medical supplies.
US Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales stated that despite repeated warnings and requests for action, the Zambian government has not taken sufficient measures to safeguard vital drugs meant for vulnerable patients.
The theft was uncovered through a year-long investigation that found over 2,000 pharmacies across Zambia selling donated medical products, with 95% of these pharmacies selling stolen goods.
Shockingly, nearly half of the pharmacies visited were selling medication and supplies donated by the US government, intended for free distribution to Zambian patients in need.
The US embassy had presented its findings to senior Zambian government leaders and offered experts to support efforts to stop further theft and bring culprits to justice.
However, the government’s actions have been deemed insufficient, leading to the aid cut. The decision affects drugs to treat malaria, HIV, and TB.
The aid cut will take effect in January 2026, giving the Zambian government time to develop alternative arrangements.
The US will continue to provide technical and logistics assistance to support humanitarian activities and prevent drug resistance and disease transmission.
Gonzales emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and that the US remains committed to supporting Zambia and its people.
The US has invested roughly $600 million annually in Zambia’s economic development and health sector, with a significant portion going towards purchasing medications for HIV, malaria, and TB.
The aid cut marks a significant shift in the US-Zambia partnership, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in managing donated resources.
