By Amos Sikaonga 
By Cecilia Chiluba
Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has questioned the inaction of oversight institutions in addressing the systemic theft of essential drugs, which has prompted the US government to cut K1.4 billion in aid to Zambia’s Health sector.
United States Government has announced the cutting of K1.4 billion in annual aid provided to Zambia for medications and medical supplies, citing failure by government to stop the systematic theft of donated drugs.
Reacting to the development, AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma has since called on Government to clean up the Ministry of Health without fear or favor, suspending all those involved in the corrupt practices.
“We question the inaction of oversight institutions like the Auditor General and Police in addressing the systemic theft of essential drugs.”
“AIPAC urges the President Hakainde Hichilema administration to engage in closed-door meetings with the American Embassy to address the concerns raised by the USA Ambassador,” Mr. Ngoma stated.
He stated that the organization is disappointed over failure by government to act on reports of individuals involved in the systematic stealing of drugs meant for patients.
“Civil servants at the Ministry of Health must remember that their actions have real-life consequences, affecting their own people, including their relatives.”
“It is time for accountability and transparency in the management of public resources at the Ministry of Health,” he added.
The US has provided approximately US$128 million annually, which is close to K3.5 billion to buy medications to treat HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as to provide technical and operational support for Zambia’s national health supply chain.
Cecilia Chiluba 
Nelson Zulu