Zambia Guarantees Consistent HIV Drug Availability Despite US Funding Suspension
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Synopsis
The Zambian government reassures citizens of a steady supply of essential HIV medications, even after the US government halted its funding. The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency confirmed adequate stocks of antiretroviral drugs, ensuring coverage for all patients nationwide.
Key Takeaways
- Zambia maintains stable supply of HIV drugs.
- US funding halt affects international programs.
- Agency assures ARV availability until June 2025.
- Zambia has 1.5 million individuals living with HIV.
- Public health facilities remain accessible to patients.
Lusaka, Feb 7 (NationPress) The Zambian government has provided assurances to the public regarding a stable supply of critical HIV medications despite the US government's decision, a primary supplier, to cease supplies. The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency, tasked with the procurement, storage, and distribution of medical supplies, confirmed that there is an adequate stock of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to satisfy the needs of all patients across the nation.
Bradley Chingobe, the agency's senior communications manager, stated, “There is no reason for alarm, as supply continuity is guaranteed. Our current ARV stock levels are projected to last until June 2025.”
He mentioned that the central warehouse, along with seven regional hubs, is well-equipped to ensure the availability of first-line, second-line, and third-line ARV regimens for all patients in need of treatment.
The agency commits to maintaining its organized nationwide distribution network which encompasses 3,500 health facilities.
On January 20, 2025, the US government announced a 90-day suspension of funding for international development programs, including those in Zambia, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
As of September 30, 2023, the Ministry of Health estimated that approximately 1.5 million individuals in Zambia are living with HIV, with nearly 1.3 million receiving antiretroviral therapy.
In a related note, on February 6, Botswana implemented interim measures to assist patients impacted by the closure of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that had been offering both prevention and treatment services related to HIV/AIDS due to the suspension of US foreign aid.
Christopher Nyanga, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, assured on Thursday that every effort would be made to sustain these services.
He remarked, “Fortunately, in some instances, these partners had been delivering services within public health facilities,” adding that the duration of the CSOs and NGOs' closures remains uncertain.
The ministry encouraged the public and clients who had been receiving services from these organizations to seek assistance from the nearest public health facilities.
