The United States has announced a $50 million reduction in health aid to Zambia, citing the country’s failure to address what it called the systematic theft of donated medicines and medical supplies.
US Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales said the decision follows repeated warnings to the Zambian government about the urgent need to protect critical medicines intended for the country’s most vulnerable patients. His remarks were reported by AllAfrica, a news network focused on African affairs.
According to a year-long investigation by the US Embassy, over 2,000 pharmacies across Zambia were found selling medical supplies that had been donated as aid.
The findings raised serious concerns about mismanagement and corruption within the country's healthcare distribution system.
The aid cuts are expected to take effect in 2026 and will significantly impact the availability of treatments for HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis — three of Zambia's most pressing public health challenges.
The US has historically been one of Zambia’s largest health aid donors, contributing millions annually to support healthcare infrastructure, medications, and disease prevention programmes.
This recent move signals a major shift in US-Zambia relations and a warning to other aid recipients about the importance of transparency and accountability.
The Zambian government has yet to issue an official response to the aid reduction or outline new measures to address the issue.
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