- U.S. aid to Zambia’s health sector will officially end in January next year.
- The Zambian government has been given time to find alternative plans.
- Health Minister assures the public of enough medical supplies for now.
- The decision is part of Trump’s wider “America First” agenda.
- Zambia’s President criticizes the cuts, vowing to boost local drug funding.
- Critical USAID-supported health projects have already been shut down.
The United States has confirmed it will stop supporting Zambia’s health programmes starting January next year. This move, officials say, gives Lusaka a window to come up with other ways to fund its healthcare systems — but the verdict, they stressed, is final.
Zambia Moves to Calm Public Anxiety
In a swift response, Zambia’s Minister of Health revealed that a modern digital system has already been introduced to keep track of medicine stocks across the country. He emphasized that there are currently enough drugs in supply and ruled out any immediate shortages.
Trump’s Policy Hits Africa Hard
Since Donald Trump entered office, billions of dollars meant for global health support have been slashed. African nations, Zambia included, have felt the pinch — especially in the fight against HIV, which continues to affect a large number of young people in the region.
Freezing of Aid Tied to Trump’s Agenda
On his first day in office, Trump announced the freeze of foreign aid as part of his “America First” approach. This shift in policy signaled reduced involvement in supporting international health missions, including the delivery of HIV treatment drugs.
Many USAID Programmes Shut Down
The changes have led to the closure of several USAID-led initiatives that previously helped deliver crucial medical and humanitarian services in struggling countries. These programmes were essential to Zambia’s fight against disease and poverty.
Zambia’s President Vows Self-Reliance
In March, President Hakainde Hichilema strongly criticized the U.S. action, saying Trump had “slapped us on both cheeks.” He called on Zambia to take charge of its health budget, insisting the nation must now prioritize buying its own drugs and strengthening its financial independence.
