In brief
Zambia's foreign minister has issued a stern warning to diplomats, particularly following the US ambassador's accusations of a 'systematic' theft of aid drugs.
Zambia's Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe has issued a warning to diplomats, urging them to respect established diplomatic channels and refrain from public commentary regarding the nation's internal matters. This statement comes in light of US Ambassador Michael Gonzales' recent press conference, where he disclosed a cut of $50 million in US aid to Zambia due to theft of essential medications meant for patients.Haimbe’s comments were interpreted as a direct response to Gonzales, who expressed frustration over the US government's decision to go public after more than 30 unproductive meetings with Zambian officials regarding the matter. The minister emphasized that addressing issues through the media undermines mutual respect and breaches diplomatic norms.In April of the previous year, the US embassy had presented evidence of the alleged corruption to Zambian authorities and offered assistance to combat the ongoing theft and pursue justice. However, no significant actions followed, prompting the US to take a more decisive step.Speaking alongside Haimbe, Home Affairs Minister Jacob Mwiimbu reported that a forensic audit concerning the theft has been completed and handed to security agencies, resulting in the arrest of approximately 75 individuals during nationwide raids on over 400 health facilities involved in the scandal. Ambassador Gonzales also revealed that inspections at over 2,000 pharmacies last year uncovered widespread selling of US-donated drugs and medical supplies. While Zambia's Health Minister Elijah Muchima acknowledged that the issue spans beyond the current administration, he reassured the public that there are adequate drug supplies to avoid immediate shortages despite the impending cuts to US aid.The US, which contributes nearly a third of public healthcare funding in Zambia, has suspended aid in the wake of these serious allegations, raising alarms about the future of health programs, including vital treatments for malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. This situation has become increasingly contentious, with President Hakainde Hichilema previously criticizing US policies under Trump, asserting the need for Zambia to enhance its own financial systems to procure essential medical supplies independently.
