US Cuts $50M in Health Aid to Zambia Over Stolen Medical Supplies
Decision Follows Failed Efforts to Stop “Systematic Theft” of Donated Drugs
The United States has announced a $50 million (£37 million) reduction in health sector aid to Zambia after repeated warnings about the widespread theft of donated medical supplies. US Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales described the move as a “difficult” but necessary decision.
“We can no longer justify funding corruption when patients must pay for medications we provided for free,” Gonzales stated, emphasizing that American taxpayers should not subsidize fraudsters’ personal enrichment.
Video credit to: Kay Felix Inspire
Widespread Theft Uncovered in Investigation
A year-long US embassy investigation revealed shocking findings:
- Over 2,000 Zambian pharmacies were selling donated drugs
- 95% of visited pharmacies selling US-provided products had stolen goods
- Nearly half were selling medications specifically donated by the US government
The stolen supplies included not only US donations but also medications purchased by Zambia’s government and other international donors like the Global Fund.
Failed Attempts at Reform
The US embassy presented its findings to Zambian authorities in April 2022, offering expert assistance to combat the theft. However, officials say the government’s response has been inadequate, focusing only on low-level offenders rather than addressing systemic corruption.
“The government’s actions fall drastically short of demonstrating commitment to safeguarding assistance,” the embassy stated.
Impact on Critical Health Programs
The funding cuts, effective January 2024, will affect:
- Malaria treatment programs
- HIV medications
- Tuberculosis drugs
Ambassador Gonzales became emotional when discussing the potential impact on Zambian patients, calling it “not a decision taken lightly.”
Zambia’s Response
Health Minister Elijah Muchima acknowledged the US support while noting the theft problem predates the current administration (in office since 2021). The government has implemented:
- An advanced digital stock tracking system
- Assurances of sufficient drug supplies to prevent shortages
Broader Context of US Aid Reductions
These cuts are separate from President Trump’s broader foreign aid freeze under the “America First” policy, which has:
- Terminated most USAID health programs in vulnerable nations
- Disrupted critical medical supply shipments across Africa
- Particularly affected HIV treatment in high-prevalence countries
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema previously criticized the aid reductions, saying they highlight the need for stronger domestic health financing.