President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that Zambia will now rely on its own treasury resources to procure Antiretroviral Drugs (ARVs) for its citizens. This decision comes in the wake of shifting global geopolitics and the recent suspension of foreign aid by the United States under President Donald Trump’s administration. Speaking at State House during a meeting with the Solar Energy Explosion team, President Hichilema emphasized the urgent need for Zambia to strengthen its financial independence and build a more resilient treasury to address critical healthcare needs.
The President highlighted that the global political landscape has undergone significant changes, particularly with the election of U.S. President Donald Trump, whose administration has taken a more inward-looking approach to foreign policy. Recently, President Trump announced a 90-day pause on foreign aid, a move that is expected to have far-reaching consequences for many African nations, including Zambia, which has historically relied on international support for various development programs, including healthcare initiatives.
President Hichilema stressed that Zambia can no longer depend on external aid to meet its essential needs, particularly in the health sector. ARVs, which are vital for the treatment and management of HIV/AIDS, have traditionally been procured with the support of international donors. However, with the uncertainty surrounding foreign aid, the government has decided to take full responsibility for funding the procurement of these life-saving medications.
“We are now on our own,” President Hichilema stated, underscoring the importance of building a stronger and more self-sufficient treasury. He called for increased fiscal discipline, efficient resource allocation, and innovative strategies to boost domestic revenue generation. The President also emphasized the need for partnerships with the private sector and local stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of critical programs like HIV/AIDS treatment.
The shift to self-funded ARV procurement is a significant move for Zambia, which has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world. According to recent statistics, approximately 1.2 million Zambians are living with HIV, and over 1 million are currently on ARV therapy. The government’s decision to take full financial responsibility for these drugs demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind, even in the face of global challenges.
During the meeting with the Solar Energy Explosion team, President Hichilema also highlighted the importance of diversifying Zambia’s economy and investing in renewable energy as a way to reduce dependency on foreign aid and create sustainable growth. He praised the team for their efforts in promoting solar energy solutions, which align with the government’s vision of achieving energy independence and addressing climate change.
The President’s announcement has sparked a mix of reactions from stakeholders. While some have applauded the government’s proactive approach to securing ARVs, others have expressed concerns about the potential strain on the national budget. Civil society organizations and healthcare advocates have called for transparency in the procurement process and urged the government to ensure that the quality and availability of ARVs are not compromised.
As Zambia navigates this new era of self-reliance, the government faces the dual challenge of maintaining its commitment to public health while strengthening its economic foundations. President Hichilema’s remarks serve as a rallying call for Zambians to unite in building a more resilient and self-sufficient nation, capable of weathering global uncertainties and meeting the needs of its people.
By Darius Choonya
