LUSAKA - The Ministry of Health (MoH) has received medical and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) equipment worth K3.3 million from Amref Health Africa to improve the quality of health education and training across 12 health training institutions in Zambia.
The donation includes a 4D diagnostic ultrasound machine, oxygen concentrators, hospital beds, incubators, birthing models, desktop computers, heavy-duty printers, and projectors. Among the beneficiary institutions are the University of Zambia (UNZA) and the Kitwe College of Nursing and Midwifery.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Lusaka, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi commended Amref Health Africa for supporting the government's efforts to strengthen the country's health workforce.
Dr. Lishimpi said strategic partnerships remain critical in helping Zambia build a resilient and fit-for-purpose health workforce capable of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
He noted that as healthcare continues to evolve due to emerging health challenges and technological advancements, training institutions must be equipped with modern learning tools to provide quality education and practical skills to future healthcare professionals.
Dr. Lishimpi also urged the beneficiary institutions to properly maintain and safeguard the donated equipment, warning that the Ministry of Health would take disciplinary action against anyone found misusing or neglecting the resources.
Meanwhile, Amref Health Africa Board Chairperson Priscilla Banda reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting Zambia's health sector through strategic investments in health workforce development.
Ms. Banda said Amref's 2023-2030 Strategic Plan prioritizes strengthening health systems by investing in the training and development of healthcare professionals capable of responding to the country's evolving healthcare needs.