US Cuts $50M Medical Aid to Zambia Amid Theft Scandal
The United States will reduce its USD 50 million annual medical aid to Zambia due to 'systematic' theft of aid supplies. The US discovered that medicines meant for free distribution were sold in pharmacies, and Zambia's government failed to address the corruption adequately, prompting the cuts.
- Country:
- Zambia
The United States has announced a significant reduction in its annual medical aid to Zambia, eliminating USD 50 million as a reaction to widespread corruption involving the theft of aid supplies.
The US ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzales, reported that from 2021 to 2023, an investigation found nearly half of 2,000 pharmacies surveyed were selling medicines intended to be distributed for free. Despite informing Zambia's government of this issue, there has been insufficient action to combat the theft, leading to this drastic decision.
This reduction, separate from prior cuts under President Trump, will impact essential medications for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. Ambassador Gonzales emphasized the necessity to protect American taxpayer funds and provide a timeline starting next January for Zambia to adjust its procurement strategies.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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