Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Zambia
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Zambia:
Take Action
25 September 2020
Have your say. Shape your future.
To mark its 75th anniversary, the United Nations is launching a global conversation on the role of international cooperation in building the future we want.
1 of 3
Take Action
02 October 2020
Decade of Action
Deliver #ForPeopleForPlanet. We have 10 years to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals. The year 2020 kicks off a reaffirmation of the 2030 Agenda. Demonstrate action through ambition, mobilization and game-changing outcomes for people and for the planet.
1 of 3
Take Action
28 October 2020
Coronavirus global outbreak
Everyone is talking about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Take part in getting your facts from reliable sources.
1 of 3
Story
03 November 2024
Commemorating the 79th United Nations Day in Zambia
Commemorating the 79th UN Zambia Commemorates 79th UN AnniversaryOn 31 October 2024, about 200 guests attended a memorable celebration of
79 years since the founding of the United Nations (UN) on the ashes of the Second World war to try and forge a new way forward in ensuring global peace and security. The event, held in Lusaka under the auspices of the UN in Zambia, also commemorated 60 years of partnership between Zambia and the UN as the intergovernmental organization started operating in the country in 1964. As guests who included diplomats, youth, women, UN staff, academics, Persons with Disabilities, private sector representatives, academia and journalists arrived, they were welcomed by the UN Resident Coordinator and members of the UN Country Team, drawn from the 24 Agencies, Funds and Programs currently operating in Zambia. The warm and inviting ambiance and music set a relaxing and inclusive tone that allowed the guests who reflected the diverse partners that the UN in Zambia works with, to network and connect with ease.The evening commenced with video message from the UN Secretary General
Mr. António Guterres on the 2024 UN Day. This was followed by an insightful presentation by Professor Bizeck Phiri, a renowned Historian from the University of Zambia who looked at Zambia-UN relations over the last 60 years, tracing moments of collaboration, growth, and shared challenges. Professor Phiri illustrated how Zambia and the UN had worked together to tackle pressing issues such as peace and security, health, education, and economic development, underscoring how the partnership had shaped the country's progress. He also noted Zambia’s strong support to UN peacekeeping operations globally since 1982 and recent UN assistance to Zambia in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic and drought emergency that the country faced.The presentation was followed by a Zambia UN Communications Group-produced 10-minute video https://youtu.be/HWqW8DW-A58, that explained the milestones of Zambia’s 60-year journey with the UN. From archival footage of Zambia’s earliest participation in the UN to recent joint initiatives, the video stirred reflection among the audience. Featuring two of Zambia’s former Ambassadors to the United Nations - Dr. Vernon Johnson Mwaanga (1968 -1972) and Mr. Lazarous Kapambwe (2007 -2012) - the video captured key moments, such as Zambia's choice of 24 October as the day of independence, the country’s efforts in the liberation of other countries in Africa led by its First President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda who was aided by other African leaders at the time such as Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, and advocacy for peace and development.The Honorable Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Mr. Elvis Nkandu, MP, was the evening's Guest of Honor. In his speech, the Minister reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to the UN and reflected on the country's journey and the shared values that have united Zambia and the UN since independence. The Minister applauded the UN’s contributions across various sectors and expressed hope for an even stronger partnership in future.“We reaffirm our commitment to the UN Charter and to the ideals that have guided our friendship with the United Nations through our first six decades of independence. Let me assure you that the Republic of Zambia values and appreciates the support of the United Nations in Zambia,” he said.Earlier, the UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms Beatrice Mutali emphasized the UN’s dedication to supporting Zambia’s aspirations for sustainable development, peace, and prosperity delivered through the Zambia-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. “Since joining the UN in 1964, Zambia has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peace, stability, and diplomacy….The UN remains committed to supporting Zambia’s Vision 2030, aligning our Cooperation Framework with the Eight National Development Plan, that is 87 percent aligned to the SDGs,” Ms Mutali said.The commemorative event was anchored by Eunice Mwenya and Makondo Mukando as Masters of Ceremonies while Becky Chanteuse provided musical performances as guests mingled and viewed an evocative photo exhibition showcasing iconic images of Zambia’s current President and all the past heads of state at the UN or in meetings with different UN Secretaries-General. The photographs captured pivotal moments in Zambia’s history and its engagement with the international community, reminding guests of the country’s long-standing commitment to global cooperation and peace. About UN Day:UN Day commemorates the founding of the United Nations on 24 October 1945. It is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and impact of the UN worldwide, while underscoring the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.With the ratification of the UN Charter (the founding document of the UN) by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council, the United Nations officially came into being.
79 years since the founding of the United Nations (UN) on the ashes of the Second World war to try and forge a new way forward in ensuring global peace and security. The event, held in Lusaka under the auspices of the UN in Zambia, also commemorated 60 years of partnership between Zambia and the UN as the intergovernmental organization started operating in the country in 1964. As guests who included diplomats, youth, women, UN staff, academics, Persons with Disabilities, private sector representatives, academia and journalists arrived, they were welcomed by the UN Resident Coordinator and members of the UN Country Team, drawn from the 24 Agencies, Funds and Programs currently operating in Zambia. The warm and inviting ambiance and music set a relaxing and inclusive tone that allowed the guests who reflected the diverse partners that the UN in Zambia works with, to network and connect with ease.The evening commenced with video message from the UN Secretary General
Mr. António Guterres on the 2024 UN Day. This was followed by an insightful presentation by Professor Bizeck Phiri, a renowned Historian from the University of Zambia who looked at Zambia-UN relations over the last 60 years, tracing moments of collaboration, growth, and shared challenges. Professor Phiri illustrated how Zambia and the UN had worked together to tackle pressing issues such as peace and security, health, education, and economic development, underscoring how the partnership had shaped the country's progress. He also noted Zambia’s strong support to UN peacekeeping operations globally since 1982 and recent UN assistance to Zambia in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic and drought emergency that the country faced.The presentation was followed by a Zambia UN Communications Group-produced 10-minute video https://youtu.be/HWqW8DW-A58, that explained the milestones of Zambia’s 60-year journey with the UN. From archival footage of Zambia’s earliest participation in the UN to recent joint initiatives, the video stirred reflection among the audience. Featuring two of Zambia’s former Ambassadors to the United Nations - Dr. Vernon Johnson Mwaanga (1968 -1972) and Mr. Lazarous Kapambwe (2007 -2012) - the video captured key moments, such as Zambia's choice of 24 October as the day of independence, the country’s efforts in the liberation of other countries in Africa led by its First President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda who was aided by other African leaders at the time such as Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, and advocacy for peace and development.The Honorable Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Mr. Elvis Nkandu, MP, was the evening's Guest of Honor. In his speech, the Minister reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to the UN and reflected on the country's journey and the shared values that have united Zambia and the UN since independence. The Minister applauded the UN’s contributions across various sectors and expressed hope for an even stronger partnership in future.“We reaffirm our commitment to the UN Charter and to the ideals that have guided our friendship with the United Nations through our first six decades of independence. Let me assure you that the Republic of Zambia values and appreciates the support of the United Nations in Zambia,” he said.Earlier, the UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms Beatrice Mutali emphasized the UN’s dedication to supporting Zambia’s aspirations for sustainable development, peace, and prosperity delivered through the Zambia-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. “Since joining the UN in 1964, Zambia has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peace, stability, and diplomacy….The UN remains committed to supporting Zambia’s Vision 2030, aligning our Cooperation Framework with the Eight National Development Plan, that is 87 percent aligned to the SDGs,” Ms Mutali said.The commemorative event was anchored by Eunice Mwenya and Makondo Mukando as Masters of Ceremonies while Becky Chanteuse provided musical performances as guests mingled and viewed an evocative photo exhibition showcasing iconic images of Zambia’s current President and all the past heads of state at the UN or in meetings with different UN Secretaries-General. The photographs captured pivotal moments in Zambia’s history and its engagement with the international community, reminding guests of the country’s long-standing commitment to global cooperation and peace. About UN Day:UN Day commemorates the founding of the United Nations on 24 October 1945. It is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and impact of the UN worldwide, while underscoring the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.With the ratification of the UN Charter (the founding document of the UN) by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council, the United Nations officially came into being.
1 of 5
Story
27 October 2024
Celebrating Zambia at 60 Years and 79th United Nations Anniversary with a Run
The early hours of 26 October 2024 saw over 2,500 people from all walks of life gather at Lusaka’s Showgrounds ready to run and walk for either 5km and 10km to celebrate Zambia’s 60th Independence and the 79th United Nations (UN) Day. The Zambia@60 and SDGs Fun Run and Walk, put together jointly by UN in Zambia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, symbolizing 60 years of partnership between the UN and Zambia, was also used to draw attention to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the collective journey by the UN and Zambia in ensuring a more inclusive and prosperous Zambia.Participants started the morning in an energetic atmosphere as with upbeat aerobics, ready to show their commitment to both Zambia’s legacy and future. The Honourable Minister of Tourism Mr. Rodney Sikumba, MP, was the Guest of Honor. He was joined by the Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary (Administration) Mrs. Hope Kalabi Situmbeko and the UN Resident Coordinator Ms Beatrice Mutali and Members of the Diplomatic Corps with their families. Other participants included government officials, regular runners, women, youth, children and Persons with Disabilities, all representing the inclusive spirit of the SDGs and Zambia’s dedication to leaving no one behind. Soon after the aerobics and key announcements on Zambia and UN relations, independence and SDG messages had been given by the event’s Masters of Ceremonies, Ms Choolwe Changula (Lusaka Fitness Squad), Mr. Kafula Mwiche (Lusaka Fitness Squad) and Dr. Remmy Mukonka (UN Zambia), the Guest of Honor addressed the participants, expressing gratitude for their enthusiasm and flagged off the event. He led the way by participating in the run with Permanent Secretaries, UN Resident Coordinator and other dignitaries also getting on the routes. Each participant was clad in a vibrant T-shirt with a country flag of their choice or UN emblem fixed in front, demonstrating unity, inclusion of all countries in the world and collective dedication to the SDGs. The routes took them past key government offices and historical sites, UN offices and diplomatic missions. Families and friends ran and walked together as they chatted with new acquaintances. As participants stopped to refresh at water, juice and fruit points, they were treated to information on different SDGs for inspiration to act on the Global Goals. Several Persons with Disabilities, including wheelchair users, the hearing impaired and Persons with Albinism, fully participated and demonstrated resilience as they navigated the routes with joy. The UN Resident Coordinator noted the importance of the SDGs. “Let us remember that action on the 17 SDGs is now more urgent than ever before as we only have about six years to 2030. Whether it's ending poverty, ensuring quality education, promoting gender equality, or taking urgent action on climate change—every step we take today at institutional, or family level will go a long way in realizing the 17 Global Goals," said Ms Mutali.As the participants crossed the finish line, there was a clear sense of unity and pride with each one receiving a medal. The Guest of Honor, Senior Government officials, Members of the UN Country Team and sponsors presented some gender-balanced recognition medals to fastest finishers, the oldest and youngest participants, Persons with Disabilities, youth, adolescents and the most determined participants, among others. The event was open for anyone to participate with no fees charged. It was organized with financial and in-kind support from Standard Chartered Bank, Prudential Life Assurance Zambia, YESS Water (Acacia Beverages), Neelkanth Sarovar Premiere Lusaka, South Point Hospitals, and PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) LLP. Lusaka Fitness Squad and Choz Fitness served as event coordinator and fitness partner respectively.
1 of 5
Story
07 October 2024
MESSAGE TO MARK ONE YEAR SINCE OCTOBER 7 ATTACKS
Today marks one year since the horrific events of October 7th when Hamas launched a large-scale terror attack in Israel killing over 1,250 Israelis and foreign nationals, including children and women. More than 250 people were abducted and taken to Gaza, including many women and children. The October 7th attack scarred souls – and on this day we remember all those who were brutally killed and suffered unspeakable violence – including sexual violence – as they were simply living their lives. This is a day for the global community to repeat in the loudest voice our utter condemnation of the abhorrent acts of Hamas, including the taking of hostages. Over the course of the past year, I have met with the families of hostages…learned more about the lives, hopes and dreams of their loved ones … and shared in their anguish and pain.I cannot imagine the torture they are forced to endure every day. I demand once again the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Until then, Hamas must allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to visit those hostages. The 7th of October is naturally a day to focus on the events of that awful day. I express my solidarity with all the victims and their loved ones.Since October 7th, a wave of shocking violence and bloodshed has erupted.The war that has followed the terrible attacks of one year ago continues to shatter lives and inflict profound human suffering for Palestinians in Gaza, and now the people of Lebanon. I have spoken out about this often and clearly. It is time for the release of the hostages. Time to silence the guns. Time to stop the suffering that has engulfed the region. Time for peace, international law and justice.The United Nations is fully committed to achieving those goals.In the midst of so much bloodshed and division, we must hold on to hope. Let us honour the memory of the victims, reunite families and end the suffering and violence in the whole Middle East.And let us never stop working for a lasting solution to the conflict where Israel, Palestine and all other countries of the region can finally live in peace and dignity and with respect for one another.
1 of 5
Story
23 September 2024
World leaders adopt pivotal UN Pact for the Future
World leaders are at UN Headquarters in New York this Sunday where they adopted the potentially game-changing Pact for the Future by consensus, with a small group of just seven countries holding out, having failed to pass a last-minute amendment. The centrepiece of the Summit of the Future is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the multilateral system and steer humanity on a new course to meet existing commitments and solve long-term challenges.
1 of 5
Press Release
11 September 2024
UN Zambia to Host Walk/Run to Promote the Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations (UN) in Zambia will in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Zambia hold the second edition of its Walk/Run to promote awareness and actions about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event, which will be held at the Lusaka Showgrounds on 26 October 2024, will also serve as an occasion to celebrate 60 years of partnership between the UN and the Republic of Zambia in the context of the Zambia@60 anniversary.The Walk/Run is a public-driven initiative aimed at raising awareness about Zambia’s development progress and promoting the achievement of the SDGs in Zambia and globally by 2030. The event, which has received support from the private sector and health care providers, will feature a variety of activities, including a 5km and 10km walk/run around a commemorative route, a health checks, and a quiz on the SDGs and Zambia’s history.UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Beatrice Mutali, notes the significance of the event in drawing attention to the Global Goals with only six years left before the 2030 deadline."The Run and Walk for the SDGs is more than just exercising. It is a powerful symbol of endurance, unity, and collective effort, much like our work towards achieving Zambia’s national development goals and the SDGs. Each step taken by participants will represent progress towards ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring that no one is left behind. Through this event, we not only raise awareness but inspire action, bringing communities together for a healthier, more sustainable future," said Ms Mutali.The event is open to the public without any participation fees. Registration opens today at https://unzambiarun4sdgs.com.
1 of 5
Press Release
12 July 2024
International Labour Organization Assistant Director General and Regional Director for Africa Visits Zambia
The International Labour Organization (ILO) Assistant Director General and Regional Director for Africa, Ms. Fanfan Rwanyindo Kayirangwa arrives in Zambia on Sunday 14 July 2024 for a two-day official visit.During her visit, Ms. Kayirangwa will hold high-level meetings with the tripartite partners among them the Zambia Federation of Employers and the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions.Director for the ILO Country Office for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique, Wellington Chibebe, says the visit will help strengthen United Nations partnerships with stakeholders in the labour sector.“We are happy that the Regional Director will be in Zambia to witness ILO and wider UN support in the areas of decent work and the promotion of social dialogue, and other respects,” said Mr. Chibebe.Ms. Kayirangwa is expected to meet senior Government officials that include the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Honourable Brenda Tambatamba, MP.As part of her appreciation of ILO support in the labour sector, the Regional Director will undertake a site visit to Varum Beverages Zambia Limited which is an ILO Social Protection Project Disability inclusion intervention area.
###
For further information contact:
Allan Mulenga
Communications Assistant
ILO Country Office for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique
LUSAKA. Mobile number: +260 977 811 021; Email: mulenga@ilo.org
ILO in Zambia:
Zambia has been a member of the ILO since 1964. Today, the country receives technical assistance from the ILO to advance social justice and the creation of decent work. The support is provided through direct support to constituents or via development cooperation projects and programmes that enhance the country’s Decent Work Agenda.
###
For further information contact:
Allan Mulenga
Communications Assistant
ILO Country Office for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique
LUSAKA. Mobile number: +260 977 811 021; Email: mulenga@ilo.org
ILO in Zambia:
Zambia has been a member of the ILO since 1964. Today, the country receives technical assistance from the ILO to advance social justice and the creation of decent work. The support is provided through direct support to constituents or via development cooperation projects and programmes that enhance the country’s Decent Work Agenda.
1 of 5
Press Release
17 June 2024
United Nations Zambia Supports Government on the Consultations on Summit of the Future
In preparation for Zambia’s participation at the Summit of the Future to be held in New York, 23 to 24 September 2024, the United Nations in Zambia is this week supporting Government-led stakeholder consultations aimed at ensuring a well-informed country position at the global gathering. The Summit of the Future is a high-level event, bringing together world leaders to forge a new international consensus on how to deliver a better present and safeguard the future. It will also address critical issues, including major global shocks that have impacted on the economies of many countries, including Zambia.The consultations, which will be held in Lusaka from 17-18 June and in Ndola on 21 June, will involve over 300 participants drawn from the Government, private sector, civil society organisations, youth, Persons with Disabilities and women. UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms Beatrice Mutali has underscored the importance of the consultations for the Summit as key in ensuring that Zambia’s position is including in the draft declaration which will be key in the deliberations during the Summit. The Governments of Namibia and Germany are co-facilitators of the Summit.“The Summit of the Future is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance cooperation on critical challenges and address gaps in global governance, reaffirm existing commitments including those to the Sustainable Development Goals. It will also help the world move towards a reinvigorated multilateral system that is better positioned to positively impact people’s lives,” said Ms Mutali.The Summit will focus on five key priority areas which are called the “Pact for the Summit” namely sustainable development and financing for development; international peace and security; science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation; youth and future generations; and transforming global governance. Zambia and Sweden are co-facilitators for the Digital Global Compact, which is one of the priorities to be considered during the summit. It is our hope that the government will take this opportunity to enhance the country’s digital transformation agenda.### About the UN in ZambiaThe UN in Zambia is comprised of 24 agencies, funds, and programmes. In addition to the Resident Coordination Office (RCO) and UNDSS, 13 agencies are resident (FAO, ILO, IOM, UNAIDS, UNCDF, UNDP, UNECA, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNESCO, WFP and WHO) and 11 are non-resident agencies (IFAD, ITC, OHCHR, UN-HABITAT, UNCTAD, UNEP, UNIDO, UNODC, UNOPS, UNWomen and WMO). UN Zambia also hosts the Africa sub-regional office for UN Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) antenna for Southern Africa. The UN provides support to Zambia through the Zambia-United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2023-2027. The Cooperation Framework, which is aligned with Zambia’s Eight National Development Plan (8NDP), has four pillars, namely: Prosperity, People, Peace and Planet. For more information, please contact:Mark Maseko, National Information OfficerUnited Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Lusaka, P: +260-211-386200 E: masekom@un.org
1 of 5
Press Release
09 May 2024
Government and Partners Call for Strengthened Partnership and Intensified Efforts Against Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Crisis
LUSAKA, Zambia, 09 May 2024 – The Acting President of the Government of the Republic of Zambia, Her Honour Mrs. W.K Mutale Nalumango, called for renewed policy and financial commitments to save the lives of babies and mothers at the Maternal and Newborn Health Summit organised today in Lusaka by the Ministry of Health with support from key line ministries and cooperating partners. Under the theme “Accelerating the Reduction of Maternal and Neonatal Deaths in Zambia through Multi-Sectoral approach” the event presented an opportunity for the Government of the Republic of Zambia and partners to assess progress made in addressing maternal and newborn deaths. Maternal mortality ratio has shown modest reduction every decade since year 2000. The facility maternal mortality ratio (MPDSR) has gone from 137 per 100,000 live births in 2020, to 123 in 2021 and to 118 in 2022. This progress highlights the efforts of the Government and partners in addressing the issue. Nevertheless, maternal mortality ratio remains unacceptably high, especially in some areas across the country. Moreover, neonatal mortality rates have remained stagnant between 2020 and 2022, with a persistent rate of 24 deaths per 1,000 live births, according to UN Inter-agency Group data. Despite improvements in maternal and newborn health, there is still much work to be done to reduce the deaths as challenges persist in meeting the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, Good Health and Wellbeing: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for at all ages, to be attained by 2030.“The Maternal and Newborn Health Summit is a critical initiative in our ongoing efforts to reduce maternal, neonatal, and perinatal deaths in Zambia. Bringing together stakeholders from various sectors will be helpful in developing actionable strategies to overcome challenges faced in accessing quality maternal and newborn health care,” stated Her Honour, Mrs. W.K Mutale Nalumango. In Zambia, a mother dies every 12 hours, a newborn dies every 30 minutes, and a stillbirth occurs every hour. In 2023 alone, 782 mothers and 16,000 newborns died, and 5,000 stillbirths were registered. Against this backdrop, the Maternal and Newborn Summit has drawn engagement and participation from all cooperating and implementing partners to review key indicators, provide recommendations for action, and map the way forward on partners’ support and collaboration."Ending preventable child and maternal deaths will require a coordinated effort between government, civil society, and the private sector to mitigate the three delays - delays in seeking care, delays in reaching care, and delays in receiving care. The United States will continue to work with you to find creative, affordable ways to connect more pregnant people to care during the most critical moments,” said U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Linnisa Wahid. The Maternal and Newborn Health summit participants discussed challenges contributing to maternal and neonatal deaths, particularly the three delays, namely, delay in seeking care, reaching care, and receiving care. Through collaborative efforts, stakeholders held sessions to discuss and develop strategies to overcome the identified barriers to care, improve access to quality maternal and newborn health care and refine resource mobilization efforts.The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Beatrice Mutali, highlighted the need of concerted efforts to address maternal and newborn deaths. “The United Nations stands in solidarity with Zambia in its pursuit of improving maternal and newborn health outcomes. We believe that today’s deliberations will catalyse the momentum towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages. We are committed to supporting the Government of the Republic of Zambia in improving access to healthcare services, particularly among the poor, and underprivileged populations and in underserved areas. We will continue to work with the Government, cooperating partners, civil society, the private sector, and communities themselves h to strengthen healthcare systems, improve the quality of care, and strengthen initiatives to promote healthy behaviours and improve care-seeking for health”.Organized by the Ministry of Health in partnership with cooperating partners, the summit marks a significant step towards operationalizing the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH&N) roadmap and investment case. The summit brought together the experts in the maternal and newborn health with policy makers to brainstorm on key issues and come forward with recommendations to improve health system for delivery of MNH interventions.The World Bank Country Manager, Dr Achim Fock, who spoke on behalf of the Cooperating Partners, emphasized the importance of a multisectoral approach to addressing the challenges in RMNCAH&N. “Zambia has a unique opportunity with roll out of decentralisation in the health sector whereby the needed multisectoral and multi-disciplinary actions can be most effective at community and local level. Local councils with the health leadership are already utilizing the Constituency Development Funds to build closer maternity clinics and investing in systems for transport for expectant mothers. Scaling this up and using the models that are already effective in some districts can be a game changer,” he said.Some of the recommendations from the summit are to improve the healthcare system in Zambia by enhancing data-driven decision-making and implementing an effective Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System. Additionally, commitments are made to improve health related supply chain and logistics management, integrate quality improvement of RMNCAH&N services, and ensure community responsiveness of these services. Furthermore, to improve sustainability and access to healthcare by enhancing collaboration, linkages, and integration of service provision have been identified as key action. Finally, recommendations have been made to address the human resources gap and raise capacities to ensure a more effective and efficient healthcare system. By implementing these recommendations, Zambia will make significant strides in improving the health and well-being of its mothers and newborns.Ends………………………………………………………………………………………………………Note to editors:For photos of the summit and b-roll, click here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16mZw6qONEIKfJOXyKtPxmkxNrRgI24dY?usp=sharing About RMNCH Roadmap: This road map is a framework has been developed in response to the need for accelerated actions for Zambia to help meet the targets of the National Health Strategic Plan 2022 - 2026, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals. It builds on the Zambia Roadmap for Accelerating Reduction of Maternal, Newborn, and Child Mortality in Zambia 2013-2016 About U.S. AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT (USAID)On behalf of the American people, the U.S. Agency for International Development promotes and demonstrates democratic values abroad, and advances a free, peaceful, and prosperous world. In support of America's foreign policy, USAID leads the U.S. Government's international development and disaster assistance through partnerships and investments that save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, and help people emerge from humanitarian crises and progress beyond assistance. Learn more at www.usaid.gov About the United Nations in ZambiaThe support of the UN System in Zambia is coordinated under Zambia- United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2023–2027, developed in close partnership with the Government of the Republic of Zambia and in consultation with development partners, enables a coherent UN response supporting Zambia to achieve the 2030 Agenda, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the country’s National Vision 2030. Learn more at The United Nations in Zambia | United Nations in Zambia For further inquiries, please contact:Dr Kalangwa Kalangwa, Spokesperson, Ministry of Health Zambia. Email: Kkalangwa@gmail.com Mainza Kawanu, Communication Officer. Email: mkawanu@unicef.org ; Telephone: +260969100157. infozambia@usaid.gov
1 of 5
Press Release
26 April 2024
United Nations provides $5.5 million for Zambia’s Drought Response
The United Nations (UN) has through the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) activated an allocation of up to $5.5 million to support Zambia’s response to an unprecedented drought that has left about 7.5 million people in 84 districts in need of assistance, with the majority being women and children. The funding is subject to completion of necessary formalities by UN agencies in Zambia that are delivering as one in supporting the Government-led efforts to provide humanitarian and lifesaving assistance to affected populations.The CERF funds will help in providing emergency food aid, distributing clean and safe water, protection, and delivering healthcare services to address drought-related health risks, among other needs. The support will also help to strengthen resilience in drought-affected communities to mitigate or avoid the humanitarian impacts of the drought and ensure that emergency relief enhances sustainability. The Acting UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Penelope Campbell, has welcomed the support from CERF and underscored commitment by the United Nations in helping Zambia respond to the drought emergency.“We stand in solidarity with the people of Zambia at this challenging time and are happy that CERF has initiated this emergency funding which will help alleviate the difficulties being faced because of the El Niño-induced drought. We commend President Hakainde Hichilema for declaring the drought emergency and further announcing an appeal as that enables the UN and other partners to mobilize support,” said Dr. Campbell. The drought has significantly impacted eight (Central, Copperbelt, Eastern, Lusaka, Muchinga, North-Western, Southern and Western provinces) of the country’s 10 provinces. The most affected are Western, Southern, Central and Lusaka provinces. The most vulnerable groups directly affected include small-scale farmers that depend on rainfed agriculture, livestock herders, and individuals reliant on natural water bodies and shallow wells.###About CERFCentral Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is one of the fastest and most effective ways to ensure that urgently needed humanitarian assistance reaches people caught up in crises. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 as the United Nations global emergency response fund, CERF enables humanitarian responders to deliver life-saving assistance whenever and wherever crises strike. The main 10 donors to CERF are the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Canada, USA, Belgium and Italy. For more information, please contact:Mark Maseko, National Information OfficerUnited Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Lusaka, P: +260-211-386200 E: masekom@un.org
1 of 5
Latest Resources
1 / 11
Resources
01 October 2024
Resources
06 June 2024
1 / 11