United Nations 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:

Learn more

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

Story

30 October 2025

Zambia Hosts High-Level Dialogue to Mark the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations

On 29 October 2025, the United Nations in Zambia commemorated the 80th UN anniversary with a high-level stakeholder dialogue held at the Graduate School of Business, University of Zambia. The event, themed “UN@80: Celebrating Achievements, Shaping Tomorrow,” brought together a diverse group of participants including members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, youth, civil society, academia, journalists and development partners.The dialogue served as a platform to reflect on the UN’s legacy in Zambia and globally, while also looking ahead to the future of multilateral cooperation and sustainable development.Government Reaffirms Zambia’s Commitment to MultilateralismOfficiating the event on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, MP, was Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Cooperation. In her address, Ms. Gundersen reaffirmed Zambia’s enduring commitment to multilateralism and its strong partnership with the United Nations.She highlighted the UN’s critical role in promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development, noting that Zambia has benefited immensely from this decades-long collaboration. “Despite global challenges, Zambia remains committed to multilateral cooperation and aims to localize key UN frameworks for greater impact,” she said.Ms. Prudence Kaoma, Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, underscored the critical importance of investing in human capital to unlock Zambia’s demographic dividend. She emphasized that leveraging multilateral frameworks is essential to sustaining long-term development, particularly in the context of ongoing debt restructuring and economic transformation.Ms. Kaoma also reaffirmed Zambia’s strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that the country has made significant strides in integrating the Global Goals into its national planning. She highlighted that over 80 percent of the SDGs have been mainstreamed into Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan, demonstrating the government’s dedication to aligning national priorities with global development targets.UN Zambia Calls for Renewed Global CooperationMs. Beatrice Mutali, the UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, welcomed participants with a powerful message of reflection and action. She emphasized that the 80th anniversary of the UN was not only a celebration of past achievements but a call to shape a more inclusive and effective UN for future generations.“Global challenges demand global solutions,” Ms. Mutali stated. “This milestone is a call to action — to renew our commitment to multilateralism, bold thinking, and strong partnerships.”She also acknowledged Zambia’s journey since independence in 1964, noting the UN’s role in supporting national development across sectors.Engaging Dialogue with Diverse PanellistsThe event featured two dynamic panel discussions moderated by Mr. Seth Broekman, UNFPA Representative and Ms. Cissy Kabasuuga, WFP Country Director, with thought-provoking contributions from Ambassador Lazarous Kapambwe, former Permanent Representative to the UN, who reflected on the strengths and areas for improvement in the UN’s support model for achieving the SDGs."Zambia’s choice to gain independence on 24 October, which is also UN Day, was not a coincidence, but a deliberate gesture by leaders to honour the UN for its support in the country’s liberation struggle," he said.For his part, Mr. Geofrey Sizala, ActionAid Zambia Business Development and Fundraising Manager, emphasized the need for the promotion of gender equality, innovative financing and stronger partnerships between civil society, government, and the private sector.Youth voices were powerfully represented by Ms. Olivia Tutu, Founder and Executive Director of Youth on Sustainable Development. In her remarks, she called for greater action on the Pact for the Future, emphasizing the need for meaningful youth participation in shaping global and national agendas.Ms. Tutu stressed that restoring intergenerational trust requires tangible outcomes that directly address the pressing challenges faced by young people — including climate change, job security, and digital governance. Her message was a clear reminder that the future must be built with youth, not just for them.Representing persons with disabilities, Mr. Moses Luneta, Board Chairperson of the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities, delivered a compelling message on the importance of inclusive development. He stressed that disability inclusion is not charity, but a matter of rights, dignity, and equity.Mr. Luneta called for inclusive policies that actively address stigma and discrimination, ensuring that no one is left behind. He emphasized that national planning must consistently and deliberately accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities, integrating accessibility and inclusion into every stage of development.Ambassador Hawa Hassan Mohamed, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia to Zambia, reminded the audience about the need for all member states to support the United Nations.“When you talk about the United Nations, remember that you are the United Nations. The UN simply implements that member states have agreed. She noted need for the UN to be ready to address emerging challenges.Dr. Rosemary Fumpa-Makano, Lecturer at the Copperbelt University’s Dag Hammarskjöld Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, highlighted Zambia’s strategic role in fostering regional peace and stability. She emphasized that peace is a cornerstone of sustainable development and that Zambia, widely regarded as a beacon of stability in the region, can leverage this position to promote regional trade and investment — benefiting both its own development and that of its neighbours.Building on the theme of development and partnerships, Mr. Anthony Kabaghe, President of the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI), explored the evolving dynamics of resource mobilization in a rapidly changing global landscape. He discussed how the private sector, in collaboration with the United Nations and government, can play a pivotal role in financing national development. Mr. Kabaghe emphasized the need for innovative approaches that reflect the shrinking of political borders and the expansion of corporate influence, calling for stronger alignment between public and private sector efforts.Looking Ahead: A Shared Vision for the FutureThe UN@80 commemoration in Zambia also marks 61 years of partnership between the UN and the government, with Zambia having joined the global body in December 1964. The event was a celebration of shared achievements and setting the stage for deeper collaboration. As the world faces complex challenges, the dialogue reaffirmed the importance of inclusive partnerships, youth engagement, and a renewed commitment to the SDGs.

1 of 5

Story

24 October 2025

Commemorating 80 years of UN Existence and 61 years of Partnership with Zambia

As we mark the calendar year 2025, we find ourselves at a dual landmark of profound global and national significance. This year, the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary—eight decades since the world, battered by war, dared to dream of collective security and shared prosperity. In parallel, Zambia and the UN reflect on 61 years of unwavering partnership, a journey that began almost immediately after the hoisting of the Zambian flag on that momentous day in 1964.These milestones are not just occasions for historical reflection. They are a necessary moment for renewal and recommitment to the fundamental pact between humanity and its institutions. For both the UN and Zambia, the theme of ‘Building Our Future Together’ must serve as our guiding star, ensuring that the legacy of partnership meets the complexity of the modern world.Eighty years ago, the UN Charter was signed, a document born not of utopian idealism, but of pragmatic necessity. It recognized that no nation could solve the world’s most pressing problems—from war and poverty to pandemics and climate collapse—in isolation. The UN has since become the vital scaffolding of our shared world, mobilizing humanitarian relief for millions, eradicating diseases, upholding human rights, and facilitating the peaceful transition of power in countless territories. Yet, the path has been arduous. From the shadows of the Cold War to the current threats of deepening geopolitical fragmentation and the erosion of multilateralism, the institution has continually been tested. The enduring lesson of the past eight decades is clear: as the needed UN reform continues, the organization remains the irreplaceable platform for global dialogue and action. It is our collective conscience and our essential safety net.In Zambia, the story of the partnership is etched into the very fabric of the nation’s development. For 61 years, the UN has been a steadfast ally to the people in Zambia, supporting the independence movement, advocating for frontline states during regional conflicts, and, critically, investing in human capital. We have partnered on everything from drafting the first national development plans to supporting constitutional reforms.The impact is tangible: decades of collaboration have contributed significantly to reducing child mortality, increasing primary school enrolment, and strengthening the democratic institutions that underpin Zambia’s well-deserved reputation as a beacon of peace in a sometimes-turbulent region. We stood shoulder-to-shoulder in the fight against HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, transforming crises into a national success story by providing vaccines, helping with awareness raising, training, providing various resources and pioneering community-based health interventions. More recently, our collaboration focused on bolstering national resilience against the recent unprecedented drought, ensuring food security, and supporting the country’s ambitious economic reform agenda.However, celebration must transition swiftly into focused action. The next decade demands a bolder, more integrated approach. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—our global blueprint for 2030—are under threat, requiring a "rescue plan" led by partnerships like ours.Zambia’s challenges, like those globally, are interconnected. Climate change exacerbates poverty and threatens the very foundation of its hydroelectric power. Inequality persists, hindering the promise of inclusive growth. The digital divide threatens to leave segments of the population behind. Building Our Future Together means moving beyond traditional development assistance and forging innovative alliances between the Government, the private sector, civil society, persons with disabilities and the youth.This means leveraging technology to leapfrog traditional barriers to education and health access. It means de-risking investments in the green economy and renewable energy solutions. It means placing the dignity and rights of every person in Zambia, especially women and girls, at the centre of all policy and planning.The 80th anniversary of the UN and the 61st year of partnership with Zambia serve as a powerful reminder: progress is not inevitable; it is a choice powered by collaboration. The founders of the UN and the architects of Zambia’s independence showed us the possibility of constructing something greater than ourselves. Today, we inherit their mandate. Let us recommit to working together, turning global visions into grassroots realities, and ensuring that the future we build is one of peace, prosperity, and justice for all.

1 of 5

photo of the UN Charter. The Charter of the United Nations is the foundational treaty of the United Nations. It establishes the purposes, governing structure, and overall framework of the UN System.

Story

22 September 2025

Youth Lead the Way: Unpacking the Digital Pact and the Pact for the Future

From 3-5 September, 2025, young leaders, SDG Supporters, and UN representatives gathered in Kafue district, South of Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, for a dynamic youth workshop focused on the Global Digital Compact and the Pact for the Future. The event aimed to translate global agreements into local action, empowering Zambia’s youth to shape national development priorities.Local Action Meets Global VisionOrganized by the United Nations in Zambia through the office of the Resident Coordinator, in partnership with a local youth-led Non-Governmental Organization, Youth on Sustainable Development (YSD), the workshop brought together over a dozen youth-led organizations and four UN Zambia SDGs Supporters. Participants explored how Zambia’s youth can align with the ambitions of the Pact for the Future, adopted at the 2024 UN Summit of the Future in New York.“The Pact for the Future is not just a global document; it’s a tool for accelerating national development,” said Emmanuel Chinyama, Senior Economist in the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. “Our youth have a critical role to play and must not be left behind.”Dialogue, Creativity, and ActionSessions included firsthand accounts from youth delegates who attended the 2024 Summit, and a bold visioning exercise titled “What If…?” that imagined Zambia in 2030 with all 17 SDGs achieved. Themes of equitable education, climate resilience, and digital inclusion emerged strongly.“Young people are not waiting on the sidelines,” said Olivia Tutu, Co-Founder of YSD.
“We’re ready to design solutions, lead initiatives, and hold ourselves accountable.”SDGs Hot Seat & Action CommitmentsIn the SDGs Hot Seat, UN Zambia SDGs Supporters— B Flow, Florence Jedidiah Mulenga, Susan K. Phiri and Abel Hangoma responded to rapid-fire questions from youth participants.“Every action matters,” emphasized Florence Jedidiah Mulenga.
“The SDGs are realized through the daily choices and commitments of ordinary people.”A highlight was the “My Action Step Video Booth,” where each participant recorded a personal commitment—from launching digital literacy clubs to advocating for climate justice. These videos will be featured in a national awareness campaign.Next StepsBy the end of the workshop, youth participants had pledged to sustain momentum through:A digital knowledge hubA youth action planAccountability check-ins within six monthsThe workshop showcased the power of intergenerational collaboration, blending youth energy with institutional expertise to drive Zambia’s development forward.“We’re turning the Pact for the Future into a living, local movement for change,” one participant concluded.

1 of 5

Group photo of young people who participated in the Pack for the Future Workshop. Photo Credit: Tapewa Mwalusaka, YSD

Story

12 August 2025

Young people in Monze and Katete lead efforts to curb down adolescent pregnancies and new HIV infections amid funding cuts

In Zambia’s Eastern and Southern Provinces, adolescents and young people are receiving essential Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) information and services through the RAPHIZ (Reducing Adolescent Pregnancies and New HIV Infections in Zambia) programme, a United Nations joint initiative of UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO, working together under the Together4SRHR Programme to deliver SRHR, HIV and Gender Based Violence (GBV) information and services for adolescents and young people in Zambia. While funding cuts have severely disrupted services such as community outreach activities and GBV response services, young people, health care workers, self-care agents and peer educators have shown remarkable resilience and are calling for stronger support to lead healthy and safe lives.According to the latest UNAIDS report, AIDS, Crisis and the Power to Transform, there were 11,000 new HIV infections among young people aged 15–24 in 2024 in Zambia. The RAPHIZ programme is helping young people in the two districts challenge harmful sociocultural and gender norms that hinder access to reproductive health care information and services.Since 2024, the joint programme trained over 50 healthcare workers, 64 community-based volunteers, 36 self-care agents, community facilitators and peer educators to provide integrated SRH, HIV and GBV information and services in Katete and Monze. However, Progress was undermined by the United States Government (USG) aid freeze in January 2025, with an immediate impact on the mental health and wellbeing of young people. An 18-years-old adolescent at Monze Urban Clinic shared his feelings at the time:“I felt bad when I heard the news about the funding issue. Without condoms and PrEP, I was asking myself how we are going protect ourselves from HIV and STIs, as I didn't know my boyfriend's status and I needed PrEP.'' Youth-led outreach and peer-led prevention activities were also heavily disrupted in January 2025, when most community-based workers, whose allowances depended on USG funding, were forced to stop work for three weeks due to funding constraints. A health worker from Chikuni Mission Hospital in Monze described the anxiety caused by the cuts:“During the funding freeze, there was an issue of retention on HIV treatment. We did not have outreach peers, so we had to send reminders for people living with HIV to attend ART appointments. It starts with people missing one appointment, and then it becomes very difficult to bring them back. At that time, we only had 15 community-based volunteers, and it was simply not enough to respond to the needs of the community.” Despite these challenges, young people and peer educators have shown remarkable resilience and dedication to continuing service delivery of essential health services during the aid freeze. In Bweenga Rural Health Centre, Trevor, a 24-year-old peer educator, warned: “If health education stops, people will turn to drug and substance abuse.” He and his peers continued volunteering without financial compensation, often walking long distances to reach the health centre. “We come to the facility every day to support our peers, and we are not paid for our work, but if we don’t come, we deprive the adolescents who depend on us.” He passionately shared.While ARVs remain available in most facilities, essential commodities such as PrEP (TE), HIV/Syphilis dual test kits, and Determine HIV rapid test kits were critically low or out of stock as of May 2025, pointing to the need for better coordination of supply from provincial to district levels during the crisis. While the majority of essential health services had been restored in the health facilities a few weeks after the funding freeze, the UN stepped in to partially address commodity availability issues. UNFPA filled the gaps in supply chain management to ensure that reproductive health commodities, ARVs and other essential medicines reached people in need across the country. This was done through providing third party logistics to Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency, facilitating delivery of commodities to seven regional hubs across the country. The recent disruptions have demonstrated that even with limited resources, community-driven solutions along with sustained partnerships can make a difference, and that young people are willing to lead local responses. However, communities and young people need consistent access to sexual and reproductive health products, even outside of health facilities. The crisis, with its disruptions in supply and services, particularly in rural settings, has created anxiety among those seeking care and placed significant mental and psychological strain on health service providers, community-based volunteers, and young peer educators. The resilience of adolescents and peer educators is not infinite, nor should it be taken for granted. “February and March were very stressful. People living with HIV asked many questions we didn’t know how to answer. There was anxiety about what would happen next,” shared a health worker at Chikuni Mission Hospital.Increased domestic financing, particularly at the local level, and renewed donor support is needed to close the resource gap in the immediate term, particularly for youth-specific prevention tools and services. Continuous supply of commodities like family planning, condoms, PrEP, and HIV self-test kits is also necessary. This year’s International Youth Day which is commemorated on 12th August with the 2025 theme, “Local Youth Action for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Beyond”, is not only a recognition of the courage and power of Zambia’s young people but also a clear call to action: give them the resources and tools to decentralize the SRHR/HIV/GBV services they need and ensure sustainable access. The views and voices of young people are critical. Through their presence on the ground and their understanding of local realities and needs, young people are the bridge between the community, service providers and those working to ensure universal access to SRHR/HIV/GBV information and services.To achieve SDG 3 and ensure healthy lives and wellbeing for all, at all ages, we must unite in building locally owned, sustainable solutions to SRHR/HIV service delivery for adolescents and youth—solutions that reflect their needs.

1 of 5

Story

11 August 2025

Rebuilding lives, one day at a time: A journey from addiction to recovery in Zambia

Nkumbu, 24, has just finished a medical school exam in Lusaka. He’s been sober for six months. “I still can’t believe it,” he says. “Six months ago, I was wandering the streets thinking: am I ever going to make it in life? But today, I’m here.”Growing up, Nkumbu dreamed of becoming a doctor. “There are no doctors in my family. I thought I’d become the first.” But alcohol derailed his journey early on. He began drinking in high school to overcome social anxiety. “My first girlfriend, I met her while I was intoxicated, so I thought this really worked.” What started as weekend partying turned into a habit. Eventually, his dependence led him to drop out of medical school twice.Raised by his aunt after the death of his parents, Nkumbu recalls her heartbreak the day he was suspended from school for drinking. “She didn’t say a word on the drive home. That should have been the wake-up call. I lost faith in myself and my ability to finish medical school. I was drunkenness, day in and day out—until I found Sanity House.’’Sanity House: A safe space to healLocated in Lusaka, Sanity House is a rehabilitation and harm reduction centre offering a safe space for people who use drugs. Through medical, psychosocial, and vocational services, the centre builds a family-like community that helps clients heal and re-enter society with dignity and purpose. Many of the staff, including Daniel Mbazima, House Manager, are in recovery themselves and serve as mentors and role models.Routine testing at Sanity House reveals an alarming HIV prevalence of 26% among people who use illicit drugs, compared to the national average of 11%. In Zambia, people who inject drugs (PWID) face various vulnerabilities. A 2022 bio-behavioural survey found HIV prevalence among PWID to be 7.3% in Lusaka, 21.3% in Ndola, and 12.2% in Livingstone.According to UNAIDS, around 30,000 people injected drugs in Zambia in 2023, and 1,3 million people were living with HIV. Yet, access to harm reduction services remains limited due to stigma, criminalization of drug use, and inadequate support. In this context, Sanity House is reducing the risk to HIV infection by helping prevent addiction and giving young people like Nkumbu another chance to get back on track and pursue their life goals.“Rehab is one day at a time. One day turns to ten, ten turns to a month. And now, six months later, I’m back in class,” Nkumbu says. “The people I used to drink with… some are dead, others are struggling to continue their studies, are in the army or even in prison.”At Sanity House, Nkumbu found not only a way out of addiction but also restored hope. “The other patients reminded me how great I am. Thanks to them, I began to see it again in myself, to see how far I’ve come and I told myself: I got this.”Nkumbu is now a youth advocate on Zambian television, sharing his story to raise awareness about youth and substance use. When asked about his first love, now a pilot in South Africa, he laughs. “Maybe she flew past me. I’ve got to get myself together first. I’m trending now, maybe she’s even seeing it.”Recovery is only possible when communities are adequately supportedDaniel Mbazima, House Manager at Sanity House, has witnessed many lives transformed at the centre. “Lasting change,” he says, “requires sustained community support and investment. The high rate of substance use combined with a lack of integrated health services is very alarming. We urgently need programmes that link addiction recovery with essential healthcare services, particularly HIV, TB and Hepatitis C viral infection prevention and treatment, among others. Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers, preventing people who inject drugs from seeking help. Addressing these challenges demands greater support and financing for interventions like we implement at Sanity House.”Clinton Kruger, a former client and now peer mentor at the centre, adds: “Recovery is possible. I’m the living proof of that. I want to show the world that there is hope, not only for those struggling with substance use, but also for their loved ones. Don’t give up on us. Sometimes, the care of just one person can be the only light in the darkness that addiction creates. You are not alone. Reach out. There is help, and there is a way forward.”UNAIDS and UNODC call for urgent and coordinated action to decriminalize drug use and possession for personal use and to scale up harm reduction strategies and community-led programmes. Evidence shows that harm reduction, including needle exchange, opioid agonist therapy, and overdose prevention reduces HIV transmission and improves health outcomes. Yet, these services remain underfunded and inaccessible in many countries, including Zambia. Nkumbu’s story is one of resilience, community, and the power of second chances. “I could have caught HIV, or worse. But I didn’t. I’m lucky. And now I get to help others.” By working alongside and supporting communities, we can break the cycle of drug abuse and illicit trafficking by addressing its root causes, investing in prevention, and strengthening health, education and social support systems.

1 of 5

View all

Press Release

27 October 2025

Zambia Launches Malaria Vaccine to Protect Over Half Million Children

Lusaka, Zambia, 27 October 2025 – The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Health, today officially launched the malaria vaccine - R21/Matrix-M, as part of its Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), marking a historic milestone in the country’s fight against malaria. Over 500,000 children aged 6-8 months will be vaccinated in the months following the launch.Malaria remains one of Zambia’s leading causes of illness and death, particularly among children under five years of age. In 2023 alone, malaria incidence among this age group rose to 523 cases per 1,000 population, according to the Trends of National Under-Five Malaria Cases and Incidence per 1,000 Population (Health Management Information System and Malaria Rapid Reporting System). The disease continues to contribute to high rates of anaemia, poor child development, and preventable deaths.The vaccine will be rolled out in a phased approach, targeting 83 districts initially (79 high-burden and 4 moderate-burden). The remaining five moderate-transmission districts will be reached later, in the second phase planned for 2026. The selected vaccine will be given in a four-dose schedule: dose 1 at 6 months, dose 2 at 7 months, dose 3 at 8 months, and dose 4 at 18-23 months. “We are proud to be one of the countries rolling out the malaria vaccine nationwide. This vaccine gives us new hope as it is a powerful tool to protect our children and move closer to a malaria-free Zambia. However, let’s not forget that this vaccine comes to complement existing interventions such as insecticide-treated nets, indoor spraying, prompt diagnosis and treatment as well as prevention therapies in alignment with the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan and WHO recommendations,” said the Hon. Elijah Muchima, Minister of Health. Zambia will be the 24th country to introduce the malaria vaccine. The country has already received 532,200 doses of the vaccine through UNICEF with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (Gavi). “The introduction of the malaria vaccine in Zambia is a landmark achievement for child health,” stated Dr. Saja Farooq Abdullah, Representative, UNICEF Zambia. “By protecting about half a million children in the first phase, we are not only saving lives but also strengthening the foundation for a healthier and more resilient future. UNICEF is proud to support the Government of Zambia in this historic effort, ensuring that every child—no matter where they live—has access to life-saving vaccines and a chance to thrive.” UNICEF’s support included planning, cold chain readiness, vaccine procurement and distribution, capacity building and communication and social mobilization.“Today marks a historic milestone in Zambia’s fight against malaria. The launch of the malaria vaccine is more than a medical intervention, it reflects our unwavering commitment to equity, innovation and saving lives. WHO remains steadfast in supporting Zambia in this transformative moment, as we move closer to a malaria-free generation,” said Dr Peter Clement Lasuba, WHO Representative to Zambia. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Health, through EPI and the National Malaria Elimination Centre (NMEC), with coordination from a Technical Working Group comprising WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, World Bank, USAID/PMI, Global Fund, CHAZ, CIDRZ, PATH, and other partners.“Zambia joins 23 countries, a few weeks after Ethiopia, in rolling out the malaria vaccine, a game-changer for child health and malaria control. With Gavi’s support, this momentum must continue. To protect millions more children, we urgently need sustained investment. No child should be left behind,” said Jamilya Sherova, Gavi Senior Country Manager for Zambia.Gavi is leading the rollout of malaria vaccines, working with countries and partners such as UNICEF and WHO to fund and deliver doses. Through Gavi’s unique co-financing model, countries, such as Zambia, increasingly contribute to the cost of their immunisation programmes, including malaria, as their economies grow.The malaria vaccine rollout is one of the fastest in Gavi’s 25-year history, with 24 African countries already introducing it into routine immunisation programmes in just over two years Guinea-Bissau is expected to follow by the end of the year. The vaccine, available free of charge, will be delivered through health facilities, outreach services, and community-based approaches, ensuring no child is left behind. Zambia is accelerating malaria elimination with the new vaccine, complementing existing measures like Insecticide-Treated Net (ITN) distribution, Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), rapid diagnosis, and preventive care for pregnant women, alongside strengthened surveillance and community engagement.===ENDS===About the Partners:Ministry of Health (MoH), ZambiaThe Ministry of Health leads Zambia’s health agenda, working to provide equitable, accessible and quality health services to all Zambians.Gavi, the Vaccine AllianceGavi, the Vaccine Alliance is a public-private partnership that helps vaccinate more than half the world’s children against some of the world’s deadliest diseases. The Vaccine Alliance brings together developing country and donor governments, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the World Bank, the vaccine industry, technical agencies, civil society, the Gates Foundation and other private sector partners. View the full list of donor governments and other leading organisations that fund Gavi’s work here.Since its inception in 2000, Gavi has helped to immunise a whole generation – over 1.1 billion children – and prevented more than 18.8 million future deaths, helping to halve child mortality in 78 lower income countries. Gavi also plays a key role in improving global health security by supporting health systems as well as funding global stockpiles for Ebola, cholera, meningococcal and yellow fever vaccines. After two decades of progress, Gavi is now focused on protecting the next generation, above all the zero-dose children who have not received even a single vaccine shot. The Vaccine Alliance employs innovative finance and the latest technology – from drones to biometrics – to save lives, prevent outbreaks before they can spread and help countries on the road to self-sufficiency. Learn more at www.gavi.org and connect with us on Facebook and X (Twitter).UNICEF
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence.WHOFounded in 1948, WHO is the United Nations agency that connects nations, partners and people to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable – so everyone, everywhere, can attain the highest level of health. WHO has been supporting the Government of Zambia since 1965.For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:Ministry of Health Zambia – Communications Lead | +260-976179942 | georgiamusonda@gmail.comUNICEF Zambia – Communication Officer | +260-969100157 | mkawanu@unice.org Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance – Media Relations Team | +41 76 424 85 03 | ekilonzo@gavi.orgWHO Zambia – External Relations Officer | +260-954386532 | serisk@who.intNotes to Editors:Over 31 million doses have been delivered so far to 24 African countries, reflecting strong demand and country commitment to the vaccine.As of 18 September 2025, a total of 23 countries in Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo and Uganda) offer malaria vaccines as part of their childhood immunization programmes, and according to their national malaria control plans.A total of 14 countries introduced the malaria vaccine for the first time in 2024 and 6 countries (Burundi, Uganda, Mali, Guinea, Togo, and Ethiopia) have thus far introduced in 2025. Ghana, Kenya and Malawi introduced in 2019 as part of the pilot programme.Why children, not adults? Children under the age of 5 are at the greatest risk of dying from malaria and account for more than 75% of the global deaths from the disease. Unlike adults, young children have not had the opportunity to develop partial immunity through years of exposure, making them particularly at risk.Malaria vaccine safety and effectiveness:Both the RTSS/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M vaccines are prequalified and recommended by WHO to prevent malaria in children and are safe and effective.In phase 3 clinical trials, both vaccines reduced malaria cases by more than half during the first year after vaccination, a period when children are at high risk of illness and death. A fourth dose given in the second year of life prolonged protection.Both vaccines reduce malaria cases by about 75% when given seasonally in areas of highly seasonal transmission – where half of childhood malaria deaths occur.The vaccines target P. falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite globally and the most prevalent in Africa.More about the vaccine here: https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/q-a-on-rts-s-malaria-vaccine

1 of 5

Press Release

15 October 2025

Zambia Joins Global Commemoration of UN@80: Celebrating Achievements, Shaping Tomorrow

This October, the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary—a momentous occasion that reflects and celebrates eight decades of global service. In Zambia, the UN Country Team will commemorate this milestone under the theme: “The UN in Zambia: Celebrating Achievements, Shaping Tomorrow.”The commemoration will highlight the UN’s 61 years of partnership with Zambia, recognizing shared progress, lessons learned, and the collaborative efforts that have shaped the country’s development journey and the 2030 Agenda. It will also serve as a forward-looking platform to engage government, civil society, the private sector, academia, youth, and development partners in dialogue on the future of multilateral cooperation and Zambia’s development priorities.The celebrations will culminate in a High-Level Stakeholder Dialogue 29 October 2025, under the sub-theme: “UN@80: Building Partnerships for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Sustainable Future.” This flagship event will foster interactive discussions that connect Zambia’s aspirations with the global vision outlined in the Pact for the Future.Key Activities include an SDGs Run/Walk that will be held on 25 October 2025, starting at the Lusaka Showgrounds in support of the Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Good Health and Wellbeing. This public event will feature free health screenings for breast and prostate cancer, blood pressure, blood sugar, eye health, and dental hygiene. Attendees will also have the opportunity to donate blood, get tested for HIV, and receive information on HIV care and support.A UN Careers Fair will run alongside the event, offering insights into employment opportunities within the UN system and guidance on application procedures.“The UN Country Team is committed to delivering a high-impact commemoration that not only honours the past but also inspires future collaboration. Amid challenges, we have immense opportunities to make a difference for the people in Zambia and globally and will remain responsive, agile, and resilient in providing support,” said Ms. Beatrice Mutali, UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia. Other Commemorative activities:Educational Outreach: Engagements with schools and universities to raise awareness of the UN’s legacy and the relevance of the SDGs.Social Media Campaign: A digital storytelling initiative using the hashtag #UN@80Zambia, featuring impact stories and future-focused messages.Exhibition titled “Faces of UN Zambia Support”, highlighting the UN’s contributions to peace, human development, humanitarian response, and institution-building.Acknowledging Our PartnersThe UN in Zambia extends its appreciation to the following institutions for their generous support and partnerships on UN Day 2025 activities:Prudential InsuranceSyngentaZambia National Blood Transfusion ServicesCancer Diseases HospitalNorthern OpticiansSouth Point HospitalsCare for Business (CFB) Medical CentreZambia Red Cross SocietyDazzling Dental ClinicAIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF)###For more information, please contact:Mark Maseko, National Information OfficerUnited Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Lusaka P: +260-211-228487 E: masekom@un.org

1 of 5

Press Release

02 October 2025

Zambia’s 2026 National Budget: Balancing Economic Stability with Social Investment

Lusaka, Zambia, 2 October 2025 — The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) in partnership with the United Nations in Zambia released today their analysis of the 2026 National Budget, presented under the theme “Closing the Loop: Sustaining Momentum Toward Inclusive and Resilient Growth.” This budget comes at a pivotal moment: it is the final year of the 8th National Development Plan (8NDP) and an election year, when the country must safeguard recent economic progress while addressing urgent social needs.At K253.1 billion, the 2026 Budget has grown by 16.6 per cent from 2025. But beneath the headline increase, difficult trade-offs remain, as debt repayments continue to consume a considerable share of national resources. The analysis highlights both the opportunities and risks in this year’s allocations.“The 2026 national budget is more than just a financial plan of government; it is the tool for the people of this country for the delivery of the kind of development that they want to see - in terms of improvements in their livelihoods. The development that leaves no one behind. With effective collaboration between government and its stakeholders- by ensuring continued discipline, unity, and a shared vision, we can turn the promise of this budget into tangible results for every Zambian, for every child, for every youth and for every household,” said the Permanent Secretary of Budget and Economic Affairs, Mwaka C Mukubesa, representing Hon. Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance. Zambia’s 2026 budget signals a push for stability and growth. With a 2.1 per cent fiscal deficit target, the Government aims to maintain discipline ahead of elections, supported by the IMF programme. Domestic revenue remains fragile at 22.3 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), calling for deeper reforms. New financing tools like the electricity fund and Public Private Partnerships (PPP) offer promise but require strong oversight. In addition, increased Constituency Development Fund allocations also highlight a continued focus on local development.Looking at social sectors, the 2026 budget outlines mixed progress. Education and health see increased allocations with K33 billion and K26.2 billion respectively – supporting teacher and health worker recruitment, infrastructure, and essential supplies. However, education’s share of the overall budget has declined, and health still faces a K21 billion financing gap to meet Zambia’s international commitment in the Abuja Declaration. Social protection funding drops slightly, though the Social Cash Transfer programme will expand to 1.5 million households, with stronger government ownership and commitment to sustainability. Nutrition remains critically underfunded, reaching only a fraction of children in need, while WASH and child protection allocations fall far short of national targets, raising concerns about long-term sustainability and child welfare. “The 2026 Budget offers Zambia a unique opportunity: to protect economic stability, to accelerate recovery from the drought, and to ensure that social gains reach every household. If implemented with discipline and inclusiveness, this budget could significantly contribute to achievement of the goals in the national development plan, including attainment of the SDGs. As we prepare for the Ninth National Development Plan and enter the last five years of the SDGs, the choices made now will shape the country’s future," stated the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), James Wakiaga PhD, on behalf of Beatrice Mutali, United Nations Resident Coordinator.The analysis notes that social spending has slowed as debt pressures grow, and both now consume roughly one-third of the National Budget. This means Zambia is spending as much on repaying debt as it is on delivering essential services to its citizens. Poverty remains stubbornly high, with 60 per cent of Zambians poor in 2024, against a target of 45 per cent by 2026. Children remain especially vulnerable, with 6.6 million facing multidimensional poverty.“As ZIPAR, we are proud to host this platform where evidence-based analysis meets open dialogue. A national Budget, after all, is far more than a financial spreadsheet—it is the Government's most potent instrument for fostering development. It reflects our priorities for mobilising resources, addressing the urgent needs of our citizens, and building a resilient nation prepared for future challenges. We convene at a truly pivotal moment. The 2026 national budget is not just the final one under the 8th National Development Plan; it also coincides with an election year. This dual significance presents a unique opportunity: the chance to cement the progress made in stabilising our economy and restoring fiscal prudence, while also navigating the risks that can accompany the political season,” said Zali. B. Chikuba, ZIPAR Executive Director. As the 8NDP closes, the 2026 Budget must not only protect Zambia’s economic stability but also ensure that social gains reach households. Without stronger investment in health, education, nutrition, and child protection, Zambia risks leaving many behind.ZIPAR and the United Nations in Zambia urge government and partners to translate budget allocations into real, tangible improvements for ordinary Zambians — from medicines in rural clinics, to teachers in overcrowded classrooms, to cash transfers that keep families afloat.Note to Editors: Macroeconomic and Fiscal HighlightsAmbitious Growth Target: Government projects the economy to grow by 6.4% in 2026, led by mining, ICT, and energy. While encouraging, this goal faces risks from climate shocks and election-year fiscal pressures.Debt Dominates Spending: Over 36% of the budget will go to debt servicing and general public services. This leaves less space for critical investments in health, education, and climate resilience.Fiscal Discipline Tested: With elections ahead, spending discipline will be key. Government has set a 2.1% fiscal deficit target, signaling commitment to stability, especially under the IMF Extended Credit Facility.Revenue Mobilisation: Domestic revenues are expected at 22.3% of GDP but remain fragile and heavily dependent on taxes. Broader reforms are needed to sustain revenue growth.Electricity Fund & PPPs: New financing models, including a proposed electricity fund and public-private partnerships for roads and infrastructure, could unlock growth. However, success depends on strong governance and risk management.Constituency Development Fund (CDF): Funding has increased from K36.6 million to K40 million per constituency, reaffirming government’s commitment to local development. However effective administration of the CDF is crucial to its success.Social Sector AnalysisDespite progress, the analysis notes that social spending has slowed as debt pressures grow. Poverty remains stubbornly high, with 60% of Zambians poor in 2024, against a target of 45% by 2026. Children remain especially vulnerable, with 6.6 million facing multidimensional poverty.Education: Allocation rises to K33 billion, supporting teacher recruitment, new school infrastructure, and a 26% increase in Early Childhood Education funding. However, education’s share of the total budget has declined from 14.5% to 13.1%.Health: Funding grows to K26.2 billion, including a 30% increase for medicines and recruitment of 2,500 health workers. Yet, a financing gap of K21 billion remains to meet international commitments.Social Protection: Allocations decline by 3%, from K16.2 billion to K15.7 billion. The Social Cash Transfer programme will still expand to 1.5 million households, with monthly payments of K400 (K600 for households with disabilities). Importantly, 88% of funding now comes from government, showing stronger national ownership.Nutrition: Still severely underfunded, with just K33.7 million allocated — less than 0.02% of the national budget. Current funding for Severe Acute Malnutrition treatment will reach only 15% of children in need.Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH): Funding rises slightly to K2.6 billion, but this represents just 1% of the budget, well below the 8NDP’s 5% target. Structural cost gaps continue to threaten sustainability of water services.Child Protection: Alarmingly, funding for child registration and protection services has been slashed, undermining safeguards for vulnerable children. Staffing for social welfare services remain well under the need.About ZIPAR
The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) is a think tank that provides evidence-based policy analysis to support Zambia’s development agenda. Learn more at Contact Us – Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and ResearchAbout 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 United Nations in Zambia===ENDS===For further inquiries, please contact:ZIPAR Penelope Chileshe, Knowledge Manager, ZIPAR. +260974818735Email: pchileshe@zipar.org.zm UNICEFMainza Kawanu, Communication Officer, UNICEF. +260969100157.Email: mkawanu@unicef.org UNDP ContactMercy Khozi, Communications Analyst, UNDP. +260966750787Email: mercy.khozi@undp.org

1 of 5

Press Release

18 September 2025

Global and national HIV Estimates Launched

Today, the Ministry of Health and the National HIV/AIDS/STI/TB Council (NAC), in collaboration with the United Nations Joint Team on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Zambia Statistics Agency, and the University of Zambia, officially launched the latest global and national HIV estimates at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. The event showcased critical epidemiological data on Zambia’s HIV epidemic, aimed at guiding future programming and informing the next phase of the national AIDS response. Speaking at the launch, the Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Health, Dr. Elijiah Muchima, MP, commended the Ministry of Health, NAC, UNAIDS, PEPFAR, CDC, civil society, communities, and development partners for Zambia’s remarkable progress. The country has achieved the 95–95–95 HIV treatment targets for the general population, with:• 98% of people living with HIV aware of their status, • 98% of those diagnosed receiving treatment, and • 97% of those on treatment achieving viral suppression. The Ministry of Health also highlighted Zambia's success in reducing new HIV infections from 63,000 in 2010 to 30,000 in 2025, and cutting AIDS-related deaths by 73%, from 26,000 to 15,000 over the same period. Globally, 2024 marked a turning point in the fight to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030—progress that was contingent on sustained political and financial commitment. However, recent reductions in international funding, particularly from long-standing donors such as the U.S. Government through PEPFAR, now risk reversing these gains. The newly released estimates reveal persistent gaps in Zambia’s HIV response:• 30,000 people were newly infected with HIV. • 38% of new infections occurred among young people aged 15–24. • Adolescent girls and young women were three times more likely to acquire HIV than their male peers. • Despite progress on adult treatment targets, children are being left behind: an estimated 3,000 children aged 0–2 were newly infected through mother-to-child transmission, with a transmission rate of 6%, still above the global target of below 5%. The UNAIDS 2025 Global AIDS Update, titled AIDS: Crisis and the Power to Transform, warns that a historic funding crisis could unravel decades of progress. Projections show that without sustained funding, the world could face 6 million additional HIV infections and 4 million more AIDS-related deaths by 2029. Zambia has responded by increasing its domestic contribution to the AIDS response from 7% in 2022 to 10% in 2024, joining 25 other low- and middle-income countries scaling up national investments. However, the country faces significant challenges, including a US$367 million reduction in the 2025 PEPFAR budget and a US$21 million cut under the Global Fund grant reprioritization. With an estimated US$500 million annual funding need, Zambia is now rethinking its HIV programme design and financing architecture to sustain progress and reduce reliance on external funding. The Ministry of Health has taken proactive steps by defining a minimum package of HIV treatment and prevention services following the funding cuts. Additionally, Zambia has published the Zambia Sustainability Roadmap: Vision 2030 and Beyond, laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable AIDS response. The Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at Ministry of Health Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi also reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to the upcoming rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable that can prevent HIV infection with just two injections per year, offer a transformative potential to significantly reducing new HIV infections in the country. Globally, HIV treatment has averted 26.9 million deaths, and 4.4 million children have been protected from infection through prevention of mother-to-child transmission. As UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima stated during the global report launch in July 2025: “In a time of crisis, the world must choose transformation over retreat. Together, we can still end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030—if we act with urgency, unity, and unwavering commitment.” ABOUT UNAIDS The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) leads and inspires the world to achieve its shared vision of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. UNAIDS unites the efforts of 11 UN organizations—UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, UNDP, UNFPA, UNODC, UN Women, ILO, UNESCO, WHO and the World Bank—and works closely with global and national partners towards ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. ABOUT UNAIDSThe Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) leads and inspires the world to achieve its shared vision of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. UNAIDS unites the efforts of 11 UN organizations—UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, UNDP, UNFPA, UNODC, UN Women, ILO, UNESCO, WHO and the World Bank—and works closely with global and national partners towards ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. Contact: Sarah Talon Sampieri, Programme Analyst, UNAIDS Zambia Talonsampieris@unaids.org

1 of 5

View all