Today, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, led by Hon. Gift Sialubalo MP, had the honour of welcoming a delegation from the World Health Organisation for a high level engagement focused on strengthening collaboration in safeguarding the wellbeing of the Zambian people.
Hon. Sialubalo expressed appreciation for the WHOβs recognition of the Ministry as a key partner in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of health service delivery at community level. He highlighted the warm and productive relationship that continues to exist between the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the WHO, a partnership that consistently delivers meaningful impact for our citizens.
Reaffirming the Governmentβs commitment, the Minister underscored Zambiaβs determination to continue working closely with the WHO on critical socio economic and public health priorities. He also highlighted the important continental role played by His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, who serves as the African Union Champion for Cholera, a role central to advancing Africaβs collective efforts against cholera.
Hon. Sialubalo further thanked the WHO and Africa CDC for launching the New Continental Preparedness Plan aimed at reducing cholera deaths and accelerating progress toward eliminating the disease. This milestone aligns strongly with Zambiaβs national priorities, especially as cholera remains a recurring threat during the rainy season.
The Minister emphasised that prevention is always better than cure, calling for a stronger shift toward preventive health measures rather than relying solely on disease control after outbreaks occur. Strengthening community preparedness, sanitation, and early warning systems, he noted, is key to building resilience.
He also highlighted the critical role that the Ministry plays in health service provision under the Governmentβs devolution agenda, particularly through the Constituency Development Fund. Through improved infrastructure, water and sanitation projects, and community level service delivery, the Ministry directly contributes to better health outcomes across the country.
Hon. Sialubalo commended the WHO for its unwavering support in Zambiaβs fight against cholera and other diseases. WHOβs assistance in securing oral cholera vaccines enabled the vaccination of over 200,000 people in hotspot districts, a clear demonstration of the strength of partnership.
As the meeting concluded, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration and ensuring that no Zambian is left behind in accessing quality and equitable health services.
