Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 10th April, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a significant step towards strengthening Zambia’s healthcare system, Acting Health Minister Douglas Syakalima has reaffirmed the New Dawn Government’s commitment to deploying a full cadre of medical specialists across every district in the country.
This ambitious initiative aims to decentralize specialized healthcare services, ensuring that even the most remote communities gain access to critical medical expertise.
Speaking through Dr. Lisulo Walubita, Director of Clinical Care and Diagnostic Services, at the launch of the Zambia College of Medicine and Surgery (ZACOMS) 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, Mr. Syakalima emphasized that the strategy is designed not only to enhance healthcare delivery but also to foster community-based service by medical trainees. Under this model, specialists will undergo training that is directly linked to the healthcare needs of their local areas, encouraging retention and service within their home districts.
Mr. Syakalima further outlined the New Dawn Government’s integrated approach, which includes dedicated funding for specialist training programs and substantial investment in upgrading healthcare infrastructure. By equipping district hospitals with advanced medical equipment and facilities, the Government aims to create an enabling environment for specialists to effectively practice and serve their communities.
“The deliberate investment in human resource development and healthcare infrastructure will bridge the gap in specialist care, ensuring that no Zambian is deprived of essential medical services regardless of their geographic location,” Mr. Syakalima affirmed.
Meanwhile, Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) Vice President Dr. Alex Lwando has urged the Ministry of Health to prioritize equitable deployment of medical specialists nationwide. He stressed that balanced distribution is critical to reducing disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas, thereby strengthening the overall resilience of the health system.
The unveiling of the ZACOMS Strategic Plan marks a pivotal moment in Zambia’s pursuit of universal health coverage, with stakeholders expressing optimism that these bold reforms will substantially elevate the standard of care across the nation.
The Agency.