The United States government will significantly reduce health aid to Zambia, citing evidence of systemic theft and misuse of funds.
The decision, confirmed on Friday, May 9, 2025, follows an internal review by U.S. development agencies that uncovered widespread corruption within Zambia’s public health programs.
The cutback will affect programs tied to HIV/AIDS treatment, malaria prevention, and broader public health infrastructure.
Officials said Zambia failed to provide adequate accountability after repeated warnings about financial mismanagement.
The U.S. is one of Zambia’s largest health aid donors, primarily through PEPFAR and USAID.
Washington will redirect funds to NGOs and vetted private-sector partners, bypassing government institutions.
Zambia’s health ministry has not responded to the allegations or the impending aid suspension.
The move raises concerns over health service disruption in a country where 1 in 8 adults is HIV-positive.
Financial analysts are watching closely, as donor confidence may impact Zambia’s debt restructuring talks and access to IMF funding.
This marks a rare diplomatic rebuke from the U.S., underscoring growing global scrutiny over aid transparency in developing nations.
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