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The Centre for Reproductive Health and Education (CRHE) has warned that Zambia could fall short of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030 if it fails to address critical issues related to the supply of essential drugs to health facilities.
Amos Mwale, Executive Director of CRHE, highlighted that one of the major obstacles to achieving UHC was the limited availability and adequacy of essential drugs in health facilities, leading to high out-of-pocket expenses for patients.
Mwale, in an interview with Zambia Monitor in Lusaka on Thursday, pointed out that governance and efficiency problems in the supply chain hinder last-mile distribution, causing wastage and restricted access, particularly in rural areas.
He stressed the importance of establishing a sustainable health security system, which included investing in local drug and vaccine manufacturing, as well as improving transparency and accountability in procurement and distribution processes.
“Zambia faces significant challenges in achieving Universal Health Coverage due to inadequate health infrastructure, with most facilities located in urban areas and few serving rural populations,” Mwale said.
He also noted the scarcity of critical diagnostic equipment such as MRI machines, angiography units, X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scanners, which forces many to seek costlier private sector alternatives.
Mwale called for immediate investment in diagnostic equipment to enhance treatment options and health outcomes.
His concerns were echoed by the Pan-African organization Partnership for African Social and Governance Research (PASGR).
PASGR Programmes Officer Jim Kaketch underscored the need for greater accountability amid increased funding and demand for demonstrable results.
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He pointed to growing challenges in health leadership and governance, particularly in financial management and donor funding accountability.
Kaketch emphasized the importance of political leadership in prioritizing UHC on the political agenda.
“Accountability is a fundamental aspect of governance that involves managing relationships between various health stakeholders, including individuals, households, and entities responsible for financing, monitoring, delivering, and using health services,” Kaketch said.
He also expressed concerns about Zambia’s healthcare workforce, including issues related to numbers, quality, and equity, despite the Ministry of Health’s efforts to ensure the availability of competent health workers.
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