World Bank’s fund allocation to Zambia hits $2 billion in three years, on the back of perceived strong governance

The World Bank has increased Zambia’s funding allocation from US$612 million to nearly US$2 billion over the past three years, citing strong governance and effective project execution under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership.

World Bank Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Nathan Belete, commended Zambia’s government for efficiently implementing Bank-funded projects and reaffirmed the institution’s confidence in the country’s progress.

Speaking during a courtesy call on Health Minister, Dr. Elijah Muchima, in Lusaka on Wednesday, Belete emphasized that the World Bank viewed its financial support as an investment, not a gift.

He also praised the Ministry of Health’s commitment to improving service delivery and emergency response mechanisms.

Minister Muchima expressed gratitude for the Bank’s continued support and highlighted Zambia’s double burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases, along with challenges such as cholera, Mpox, COVID-19, and the ongoing drought affecting 6.5 million people in 84 districts.

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He noted the World Bank’s contributions to key health initiatives, including the Africa CDC Regional Investment Project, which has received $89 million, the Zambia Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Project with $50 million, and the upcoming Healthcare Innovation and Transformation (HIT) Project, which has been allocated $150 million.

Muchima said these initiatives would enhance primary healthcare, digital health, and supply chain systems, adding that Zambia is prioritizing health infrastructure, workforce capacity building, solar-powered health facilities, and improved access to essential medical supplies.

Both parties agreed on the need to sustain Zambia’s progress in health service delivery and emergency preparedness.

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