03/10/2026
FORMER MINISTER WELCOMES ZAMMSA CLEAN-UP
Former Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms Doreen Mwamba, has welcomed the decision to remove employees at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA) as part of efforts to clean up the country’s medicine supply chain.
Ms Mwamba, who is also a UPND National Management Committee Member, commended Minister of Health Dr Roma Chilengi for what she described as a bold decision aimed at putting Zambia’s health system on a path to recovery and, ultimately, prosperity.
She said maintaining ZAMSA in its current state would be like “a new chef cooking from a perforated pot and expecting a different recipe.”
Ms Mwamba said a strong health system supported by a reliable and efficient medicine supply chain was essential to building a productive nation and advancing the Grow Zambia Agenda.
She further said the US$2.8 billion in health investments reportedly secured by President Hakainde Hichilema during his recent visit to Dubai should be complemented by a viable and efficient health system.
Ms Mwamba called for a digitised and accountable medical supply chain anchored by a functional ZAMSA to ensure that essential medicines reach citizens efficiently.
She congratulated Dr Chilengi on his appointment and urged him to remain vigilant in executing his mandate, with the goal of ensuring quality and accessible health services for all, regardless of social or economic status.
She also urged health workers to heed President Hichilema’s call to avoid using mobile phones while on duty, except during designated breaks in order to enhance service delivery to those seeking medical care.
