Lusaka, February 7 (IANS) – The Zambian government has reassured the public that the supply of life-saving HIV medications will remain stable, despite the suspension of U.S. aid, which has traditionally been a major supplier of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.
Bradley Chingobe, Senior Manager for Corporate Communications at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA), confirmed that the country has adequate stocks of ARVs to meet the needs of all patients nationwide. In a statement issued today, he stated, “There is no cause for concern, as supply continuity is assured. Our current ARV stock levels are sufficient to last until June 2025.”
ZAMMSA, the government agency responsible for procuring, storing, and distributing medicines and medical supplies, emphasized that its central warehouse and regional hubs are well-stocked with first-line, second-line, and third-line ARV regimens, which will be available for all patients requiring treatment. The agency also noted that its structured nationwide distribution network, which covers 3,500 health facilities, remains intact and operational.
The assurance comes in the wake of a January 20 announcement from the U.S. government regarding a 90-day suspension of funding for international development programs, including those in Zambia. The suspension has raised concerns about the continuity of HIV-related health services in the country.
As of September 30, 2023, Zambia had approximately 1.5 million people living with HIV, with nearly 1.3 million individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy.
In related news, neighboring Botswana has implemented stopgap measures to support patients affected by the closure of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), which had been providing HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment services funded by U.S. foreign aid. Botswana’s Ministry of Health spokesperson Christopher Nyanga assured the public that efforts would be made to ensure these services continue at public health facilities, though it remains unclear how long the closures of CSOs and NGOs will last.
Both Zambia and Botswana are working to mitigate the impacts of the funding suspension, ensuring that patients continue to receive essential HIV treatment and care.
Recent Random Post:
